MILWAUKEE (NBC 26) — Longtime Brewers star Ryan Braun is "not currently interested" in playing this season, according to MLB.com.
“I’m continuing to work out and stay in shape, but I’m not currently interested in playing,” Braun said in a text message to MLB.com. “I am enjoying my family and focused on other business interests for now but appreciate the interest I’ve received and will continue to regularly stay in touch with the Brewers.”
The 37-year-old Braun has been a free agent since October, when the Brewers declined his option for the 2021 season.
Braun's statement today seems to line up with what Brewers general manager David Stearns told reporters last week.
"Ryan continues to evaluate the situation," Stearns said. "I think he's enjoyed some time with family this offseason and as we move into spring training and potentially the season we'll continue to stay in touch with him."
This comes after speculation was raised Tuesday when a video showed the Brewers loading up some of Braun's bats into their spring training equipment truck.
The truck's packed and ready to go! Pitchers and catchers report next week. @ODFL_Inc | #TruckDay pic.twitter.com/dRr1wxOSeR
— Milwaukee Brewers (@Brewers) February 9, 2021
Braun, the 2011 National League MVP, struggled along with the rest of the Brewers offense last season. He batted a career-low .233 with eight home runs and 26 RBI in 39 games.
Brewers position players are scheduled to report to spring training on February 23.
