Braun saga into Spring Training?

Newsday’s Ken Davidoff suggested in a blog post this morning that Brewers outfielder Ryan Braun’s status for the 2012 season may not be resolved until after the start of Spring Training. Brewers pitchers and catchers report Feb. 18 and position players about a week later.

Is it possible that the matter won’t be resolved until so late a date? I don’t know. As GM Doug Melvin told me yesterday (check Brewers.com for the story), the club hasn’t been given any information at all from MLB about Braun facing a suspension under the league’s drug testing program. Those closer to the process say they cannot or will not divulge a timeline. As Davidoff wrote, lips are sealed exceptionally tight on this one. It will be very interesting to see how Braun handles a scheduled appearance at a Baseball Writers Association of America event in New York on Jan. 21.

The Brewers have said it’s business as usual, but you can bet they are on edge about the prospect of losing the National League MVP for 50 games, especially considering the team, with starters Zack Greinke and Shaun Marcum entering contract years, has another window to win.

Everyone simply must patiently wait for the process to play out.

*

Follow Brew Beat on Twitter.