This is an interesting time for Greg Ballard.

The Indianapolis Mayor stepped up with his first budget proposal last week, a document that was also his first major policy initiative.  At the same time it was a circumstance that forced the Republican to take political stances (cutting the Democratic Sheriff’s budget) and put him in the “politician” role he tried previously to avoid.  He looked uncomfortable.

Then he was on stage at the gala opening of Lucas Oil Stadium, again forced to be the politician, this time in a setting that was purleyceremonial.  He looked uncomfortable again, even on the videotaped replay shown at the open house for season ticket holders Sunday.

Will Ballard get better, or will he prove that he’s in a league where he doesn’t belong?

There are more interesting times ahead.