Former Brewers star Ryan Braun praises firefighters battling LA wildfires: ‘Truly heroes’

Former Milwaukee Brewers star Ryan Braun has had a challenging few weeks as he was evacuated from his home in California due to the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. The 41-year-old baseball player expressed his deep appreciation for the firefighters who have been working tirelessly to keep people and buildings safe during this crisis.

In an interview with Fox News Digital, Braun emphasized the heroic efforts of the first responders, stating, “Firefighters and first responders are truly heroes. I don’t think that we get an opportunity to thank them often enough. But those guys have put their lives on the line. They’ve worked night and day. I know a number of firefighters who literally didn’t sleep for 72 hours.”

Braun, along with World Series champion Mike Moustakas, Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff, Brewers star Christian Yelich, and Mike Attanasio from the Brewers’ ownership, founded California Strong to assist communities affected by the wildfires. California Strong is a program of the YMCA dedicated to providing support to all Californians after disasters.

Yelich highlighted the resilience of the California community in times of need, stating, “The community seems to step up every time there’s people in need. It’s a long recovery process, and it’s not something that happens overnight. It’s a multiyear process, and we are here to help people get back on their feet and support them throughout the journey.”

Moustakas explained how California Strong originated from a simple gesture of checking in on each other during tough times, which eventually evolved into using their platforms to help those in need. He expressed excitement about supporting families in need and helping the community rebuild.

Braun acknowledged the long and difficult rebuilding process that lies ahead for those affected by the wildfires. He emphasized the importance of providing support to those in need both in the immediate aftermath and in the long term. California Strong, in partnership with Proactive Sports, is working to assist Californians in getting back on their feet and rebuilding their lives.

Proactive Sports owner Emily Capretta shared the organization’s commitment to supporting those impacted by natural disasters, highlighting their partnership with California Strong since its inception. The goal is to provide immediate assistance to those affected by the wildfires and continue to support them throughout the challenging rebuilding process.

As California continues to battle the wildfires, Braun and his fellow athletes are dedicated to supporting their community and helping those in need. Their efforts with California Strong are a testament to the power of unity and compassion in times of crisis.