If Brewers fans had pits in their stomachs when they heard about Ryan Braun's suspension for the rest of this season, the sensation will soon be replaced by a warm slurry of free nachos, hot dogs and other ballpark fare.
And the money the Brewers were saving by not having to pay Braun during his Biogenesis-related shutdown? That, too, will disappear into so many Miller Park mouths.
The Brewers announced on Monday that all fans with tickets to home games in August will receive $10 vouchers that can be used on food, drinks, merchandise or tickets.
We're guessing that because it's baseball and it's Wisconsin, the first two will be the primary targets of the freebies (as they should be).
The team said it expects to give out more than $3.6 million worth of vouchers. Not all will be used, but it's the thought that counts — particularly as the Brewers have tumbled into last place in the National League Central and are saving $3.25 million on their star player during his unpaid suspension.
Chairman and principal owner Mark Attanasio said in a news release that it has been a "challenging season for all of us." He added: "We wanted to do something meaningful to show our appreciation, and we will strive to provide the best fan experience possible."
It was no doubt linked primarily to Braun and not only the losing record, but we still were curious: Would the Twins ever attempt something like it in the midst of another losing year (on the heels of back-to-back 95-loss seasons)?
We asked Twins President Dave St. Peter, who replied via e-mail that "offers are reviewed on a regular basis and will be adjusted as necessary with the intent of ensuring a fans-first culture." It should be pointed out that the team already offers a 10 percent concession and merchandise discount to season-ticket holders, a promotion that has run the duration of 2013.
