Inbox: How will market for Braun shake out?

DENVER — The Brewers are rounding third and heading for home, ready to scatter on Sunday night, after their season finale at Coors Field. But while players take an offseason hiatus, we’ll still be here, covering the news and rumors throughout the Hot Stove season.

That means it’s time to check the Inbox, beginning with the question that figures to dominate the Brewers’ offseason:

@AdamMcCalvy what the percent of Ryan Braun playing in milwaukee in 2017

— Eugene Mannarino (@steelmann58) September 29, 2016

@AdamMcCalvy what the percent of Ryan Braun playing in milwaukee in 2017

Ask yourself this question, Eugene: Will Ryan Braun’s value ever be higher? He will be 33 years old in November. He is three games away from navigating a full, healthy season following back surgery, and he’s now two full years removed from his right thumb issue. He hit 30 home runs, even though the Brewers traded away essentially all of the established hitters around him, and he’s 10th in the National League with a weighted runs created plus of 134.

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Braun has four years left on his contract at between $16 million and $19 million per year, which arguably makes him a bargain. He drew serious interest from the Braves, Dodgers and other teams at the Trade Deadline, so there is clearly a market out there. Meanwhile, Brewers general manager David Stearns has been aggressive in trading established assets for prospects. There’s no halfway in this rebuild.

And here’s one more factor: Next April, Braun will secure the coveted status that comes with accruing 10 years of Major League service, including five with the same team, earning veto power over any trade. Until then, the Brewers can trade Braun to the Angels, D-backs, Dodgers, Giants, Marlins or Padres without his approval.

Add it all up, the percentages favor Braun wearing a different uniform by Opening Day.

@AdamMcCalvy any …

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