MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Times were far better for Mark Attanasio and his slugger, Ryan Braun in April of 2011 when the Brewers owner made Braun, not the departed Prince Fielder, the face of the franchise by signing him to a five-year $105 million contract that committed Milwaukee to pay him $145.50 million through 2020.
That fall, the Brewers won their first division title since 1982 -- within two wins of the World Series. Braun won the league MVP award, and even then, he was spiraling toward Monday's 65-game suspension.
Attanasio is in his ninth season as the chairman and principal owner. He could never have expected such a high hard pitch coming right at him when he bought the ballclub in 2005.
Even if he's willing and able to disclose the reasons for his suspension, Braun has tarnished his image forever. He may never make another All-Star team or the Hall of Fame.
Attanasio says Braun will need to earn back the fans' loyalty and trust, and says that will not be easy.
Right behind Aaron Rodgers, Braun may have the most popular professional athlete in Wisconsin, and integrity was a big part of that.
Attanasio says Braun has apologized to him twice since he was suspended, but says that didn't take away his feeling of being betrayed.
Attanasio says he's sad, but seems committed to moving forward with the five-time All-Star and former MVP.
Braun is suspended for the rest of the 2013 baseball season.