"Every time Major League Baseball seems set to stage a revival among its most skeptical fans, the ones that swore off the game after the strike of '94, the muscular shadow of steroids comes along to rain on its parade. This time, it's one of the game's most beloved young stars, the reigning NL MVP, playing in the commissioner of baseball's own home town, Milwaukee. Outfielder Ryan Braun, after failing a PED test, now finds himself in the crosshairs of suspension and disgrace. The sport is staggered.

Braun, just 20 days ago on Nov. 22, was named NL MVP for his season of 33 homers, 33 steals and a .994 OPS, leading the Brewers to the NL Central crown, hitting ahead of teammate Prince Fielder. It was during the NLDS against Arizona that he was randomly tested for steroids. "