(Image Source: TIME)

BY MATT NOONAN

Just when you thought baseball’s steroid era was over, ESPN reports reigning National League MVP Ryan Braun (BRAHN) has tested positive for performance enhancing drugs. A Milwaukee Journal Sentinal columnist says the news casts a shadow over what had been a memorable season for 28-year-old Braun and the Brewers.

“Braun's career began long after the Steroid Era. He knew the risk/reward margin had shrunk to a bad umpire's strike zone. So why would such a talented player take such a chance? If this is all a mistake, fine. If not, a reputation and a tremendous season both would be incredibly damaged.”

Braun’s reputation may not be the only thing taking a hit. FOX Sports’ Jon Paul Morosy says the news is a sobering reality check for Major League Baseball.

“No matter what happens, this is a dark day for baseball. Braun is the reigning NL MVP. A superstar just entering his prime. One of the most gifted hitters in the game, and the man who must keep baseball’s flame burning in Milwaukee.

“The notion that baseball has cleansed itself of the steroid issue is gone. The Autumn of good feelings is over. Here comes the Winter of discontent.”

Now that performance enhancing drugs are back in the spotlight, many are asking if baseball’s other stars are using them too. Yahoo! Sports blogger Jeff Passan writes if you think Braun is the only one using PEDs, you’re kidding yourself.

“The last two players busted were a just-crowned MVP and one of the best hitters ever, Manny Ramirez. And you want to tell me other superstars, let alone utilitymen looking to keep their major league jobs, aren’t doping? They’re just not getting caught.”

If they’re not getting caught, they certainly have good reason to try to beat the system. ESPN’s Buster Olney notes that while Braun’s reputation may take a beating, his wallet will remain intact.

“Does crime pay? Well, you know, if Ryan Braun is actually suspended keep in mind -- he’ll still continue on in the $150 million contract that he has with the Brewers through the 2020 season. The answer to that question ‘does crime pay?’ ‘Yes.’”

The NL MVP isn’t going down without a fight. Sports Illustrated writer Will Carroll says Braun has denied using performance enhancing drugs, and will file an appeal with Major League Baseball.

“With Braun's representatives saying that they are mounting an ‘aggressive appeal,’ it is important to remember what we know and what we don't know. At this stage, there are enough conflicting reports to reserve judgement … The original report from ESPN's Outside The Lines is certainly troubling, but it is hardly definitive.”

If Braun’s appeal is rejected, he could face a 50 game suspension to begin the 2012 season.

Transcript By Newsy.