Best MLB players not in the Hall of Fame: Milwaukee Brewers, Ryan Braun
WAR value: 47.1
Ryan Braun is another controversial player on this list, even though he was not around during the first surge of steroid users back in the late 1990s. The Milwaukee Brewers slugger actually served a suspension for PEDs, which is much different than others who were only alleged users.
On the field, Braun is one of the best players to ever wear a Brewers uniform. He is the franchise leader in home runs with 352 and was named MVP during the 2011 season.
Braun made his debut back in 2007 and was named Rookie of the Year the same season. While five straight All-Star Game appearances did follow, anyone considering his case is going to be hung up on the PED use and suspensions.
Even if the steroid label was not attached to his name, Braun would not likely have any shot of getting into the Hall of Fame. He is in the category of a player on this list who will be in the team’s own Hall of Fame, but that is it. The slugger just never did enough to take that leap into the legend conversation.
When it comes to franchise leaders, Robin Yount holds the most offensive records. But Braun is right behind him, along with Paul Molitor, in plenty of categories. That puts him high up in Milwaukee history, which may just be fine for Braun after what is still a successful career.