In 2011, Braun hit .285 with 20 home runs and 84 RBI after signing a four-year deal with the Lions. This year, he was on pace to top all of those numbers, hitting .313 with 14 home runs, 33 RBI, and 23 stolen bases.
The only player on the Roadrunner roster that can compare with that kind of offensive production is Josh Hamilton. After missing all of April, Hamilton has returned in a big way, leading the team with a .335 average, 8 home runs, and 34 RBI. He also plays left field, Braun's natural position.
"I have no issue making room for Brauny when he arrives. Torii (Hunter) and I will be more than happy to slide over a spot in the field if we can get some extra pop in our lineup." Braun will join the club for the last three blocks of the season, and will most likely hit right in front of Hamilton. That MVP-caliber righty-lefty combination -- along with their solid pitching staff -- should be enough to give California the edge in the AL playoff race.
If they miss the post-season again they'll be left standing on a hill in a mountain of dreams. They'll be wondering what could have been, and second-guessing their sacrifice of future talent for a shot at winning it all.
