Ryan Braun makes media guide cover

Ryan Braun, the reigning NL MVP, has been conspicuously missing from the Brewers' marketing ads as the club waits to see if he will be suspended for the first 50 games of the 2012 season for a reported positive drug test. He appealed that ruling and we are 18 days into the prescribed 25-day period for the arbitration panel to render its verdict.

But the Brewers did release today a sneak peak at the cover of their 2012 media guide and Braun is featured, though from a back view as he and Carlos Gomez greet Nyjer Morgan after Morgan's game-winning hit in Game 5 of the NLDS vs. Arizona.

And, no, the three players did not carry their celebration into the parking lot outside of Miller Park. The ballpark was super-imposed behind the players to display the NL Central championship banner that was displayed after the Brewers claimed the division for the first time.

We usually have to wait for spring training to see who's on the cover so we thank the crack Brewers media relations staff for letting us get this sneak preview.

Pitchers and catchers report in 12 days!


(jsonline.com)