Milwaukee Brewers: DH could extend Ryan Braun’s career

Ryan Braun had originally considered retiring at the end of the 2020 season. With the designated hitter coming to the NL, those plans may be on hold.

Back in January during the Milwaukee Brewers Fan Fest, Ryan Braun acknowledged that he had contemplated the end of his playing career. At 36 years old, and in the final season of his contract, he knew the end was in sight. At the time, it was expected that he would retire at the end of the upcoming season, secure in his place as one of the greatest Brewers of all time.

Then came the pandemic. Braun’s expected swansong and farewell tour has been shortened to 60 games at most. Likewise, the rules in the National League have changed, at least for this year. The designated hitter is coming, and frankly, may never leave.

This has caused Braun to reconsider his thoughts. He is now considering a return for 2021, especially if the DH remains in the NL on another one year agreement. This way, he would still be able to play while having less wear and tear on his body due to the rigors of playing in the field.

While he is not the player he once was, Braun was still solid in 2019. Over his 508 plate appearances, he produced a .285/.343/.505 batting line, hitting 31 doubles and 22 homers while stealing 11 bases. There is certainly some fuel left in his tank.

Continuing to play beyond the abbreviated 2020 season would only add to his controversial legacy. He is one of the greatest players in Brewers’ history, although his accomplishments are tainted by his PED admissions. Those admissions were even more brutally scrutinized considered how viciously he attacked the person that took his failed sample.

For all that controversy, Braun is still a valued part of the Brewers lineup. He was still an excellent hitter, getting on base and showing respectable power. With Milwaukee still holding postseason aspirations, especially in a shortened season, Braun could still make a difference.

And with the new designated hitter rules coming to the National League, Ryan Braun could be effective for longer. The longtime Milwaukee Brewers outfielder could remain beyond 2020.