MILWAUKEE (AP) -- The Milwaukee Brewers are banking on Ryan Braun with the largest contract in the club's history.

The NL Rookie of the Year and the Brewers agreed to an eight-year, $45 million deal. The contract replaces the $445,000, one-year renewal the Brewers gave him in spring training.

General manager Doug Melvin says the Brewers believe in Braun's talent and character. And, Braun says he's excited about the direction of the franchise.

Braun hit .324 with 34 homers and 97 RBIs last season in 113 games after a May 25th callup. He entered today's game with a .287 average, nine homers and 29 RBIs.

The deal surpasses the $42 million, four-year contract the Brewers gave free-agent pitcher Jeff Suppan before the 2007 season.

Braun says now he can focus on playing baseball.