Ryan Braun Tests Positive for PEDs, but MLB Fans Can't Rush to Judgement

Ryan Braun is the last guy I'd think who would be using performance-enhancing drugs, but today Major League Baseball announced the NL MVP's drug test came back positive.

The Milwaukee Brewers outfielder plans to challenge the results of the test, with his spokesman explaining the circumstances:

"

There are highly unusual circumstances surrounding this case which will support Ryan's complete innocence and demonstrate there was absolutely no intentional violation of the program. While Ryan has impeccable character and no previous history, unfortunately, because of the process we have to maintain confidentiality and are not able to discuss it any further, but we are confident he will ultimately be exonerated.

"

Despite the positive test, you do have to keep an open mind until more facts come to light. The spokesman's explanation of "unusual circumstances" sounds like the same old, drawn-out excuses that we've heard from athletes before Braun.

Let's hope this time it's true.

Braun is the reigning NL MVP and could start his 2012 campaign with a 50-game suspension, no doubt a huge loss for a team that will be without their former slugger, Prince Fielder.

It would also be a devastating blow to Major League Baseball if Braun has been caught cheating as he would be added to the list of elite players who have been caught since the MLB began serious testing.

I can't stress enough that we all must give the benefit of the doubt and wait until all the facts come out. For now, all we can do is speculate and not allow the steroid problems of the past make us rush to judgement now, and in the future.