Braun's ailing back ends his season

The Milwaukee Brewers aren't going to take any chances with their franchise player.

Ryan Braun has been shut down for the remainder of the season, as his injured back has not progressed the way the team would have hoped.

The 31-year-old superstar has sporadically been in and out of the Brewers' lineup of late, as the back has hampered his ability to perform.

"I've known that for a couple of months," Braun told reporters of his debilitating injury. "If it were to get worse, it would prolong the recovery time, so that's what we're trying to avoid. It's kind of a fine line that we're walking there."

He's expected to undergo off-season back surgery and with the Brewers officially being eliminated from postseason contention, the decision to cut his season short is a smart one, considering the former National League MVP is still under contract for at least five more seasons.

The slugger is hitting .285/.356/.498 with 25 home runs, 84 RBIs and 24 stolen bases.