Brewers fans react to Ryan Braun's apology statement
MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Ryan Braun waited to apologize until his team didn't have a game and the players were out of town. Fans agree that it was in Braun's best interest to apologize, but what many didn't agree on was the way he went about it -- issuing a statement.
"It's better than doing nothing. It's going to follow him for the rest of his career," said Tony Case. "I would have preferred to actually come out and face the music, but at least he apologized. Got to give him some credit, I guess."
Some feel that a written statement isn't enough to satisfy fans who felt betrayed by Braun.
"When you write a written apology, typically, you probably have an agent and somebody else helping you word how you're going to put this apology to the media. I think if you do it in person, you sound a lot more genuine and you sound a lot more remorseful for your mistakes," Chris Bush said.
Other fans believe the game of baseball is the real victim in all of this.
"He just put a black eye on the game because he's been cheating for so long. It's a black eye on the game," said Robert Porter.
"I think there's something flawed with the whole system if these guys can cheat and still be able to play. It's just doesn't make any sense to me," said Case.
Braun issued a separate apology letter to the fans that reads in full:
Letter to the fans of the Milwaukee Brewers:
I have always been very grateful for the privilege of playing baseball in the great city of Milwaukee. I am so sorry for letting you down by being in denial for so long and not telling the whole truth about what happened. I am ashamed and extremely embarrassed by the decisions I made. There are no excuses for what I did and I take full responsibility for my actions. I apologize to all Brewers fans for disappointing you.
I came forward because I knew it was time for me to tell the truth and accept my punishment. I understand I have abused your trust and that of our great owner Mark Attanasio and the entire Brewers organization. Admitting my mistakes and asking for your forgiveness are the first steps in what I know will be a lengthy process to prove myself to you again.
It is an honor to represent the people of Wisconsin by wearing a Brewers uniform. I want all of you to know how much I have appreciated the support I've received from so many of you throughout my years with the organization. I will continue to work on improving myself and making amends for what I have done. I am deeply sorry for my actions and I apologize to everyone I have let down. I am committed to doing everything I can to earn back your trust and support.
Sincerely,
Ryan Braun
CLICK HERE to read Braun's initial apology.