Jen_Lada's Blog

"...from school on out, he always had to have the highest grade. Always had to have the A. That's just how Ryan is. That's just who he is. That's how he was born and luckily it's come to fruition here."

 -Diane Braun

I was lucky enough to sit behind Ryan Braun's parents and grandfather at Thursday's press conference announcing the athlete's new contract with the Brewers. Before Ryan even entered the packed room, I watched as his mom Diane leaned over to her father and whispered "How unreal is this?" with a huge smile on her face. I couldn't help but get a few goosebumps.

All any parent wants to see is their children happy, healthy and successful on whatever career path they choose. And talking to Braun's parents, their pride was palpable. Not only because Ryan continues to prove his worth on the diamond, but because he hasn't allowed the bright lights or big money to compromise the values they instilled in him as a kid. It's too easy for 'big leaguers' to start 'big timing' when their ship comes in but the Braun's seem confident (and hopeful) that won't happen with Ryan. 

Time will certainly tell but the current signs are promising...  A significant portion of his earnings are being set aside to benefit local charities and the 24 year old also promises to dedicate his time and presence to such organizations. Mom also shared this: when Ryan received his signing bonus, the only extravagant purchase he made was a new car for his grandpa. A cynic could certainly argue that mom probably doesn't know every purchase her son made with his earnings but she really gushed about that detail. To her it showed he's taken her advice about 'staying grounded' to heart. And more than being proud of her son for his 8 year, 45 million dollar deal, she seemed proud that the promise of an 8 year, 45 million dollar deal hadn't changed him yet.