What Fans’ Displeasure With Braun Could Mean For Brewers And Milwaukee

Fans’ reactions to Brewers star Ryan Braun’s suspension could cause a financial impact not only for his team, but for the economy around southeast Wisconsin.

The Milwaukee Brewers have worked hard to build their relationship with their fans. Saint Norbert’s College economics professor Kevin Quinn says Ryan Braun’s suspension damaged that relationship. While Quinn says he doesn’t think anyone holds the team responsible, the fans are feeling betrayed, which could mean a financial impact for the Brewers and the region.

“I’m not going to say that it’s going to be an economic collapse of the five-county area,” Quinn says, “but it will be noticeable, I think, especially in the areas around the ballpark.”

Gauging the effect of the suspension will he hard. Attendence numbers were already down because of injuries and the team’s performance. Managing member of Lieb Advisors Bob Lieb thinks those two factors will have the biggest affect on attendence. “Will Braun’s suspension have an impact on that? Not so much this season.”

Lieb says at this point, it’s unclear what will happen to merchandise sales. He says fans may shift to other players or buy fewer items.

Meanwhile, the Brewers can’t say enough about their fans. In a written statement, Chief Operating Officer Rick Schlesinger said their support and loyalty was greatly appreciated.