The Atlanta Braves are facing a significant setback as outfielder/designated hitter Jurickson Profar has been suspended for the entire 2026 season after testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) for a second time, according to ESPN.
A Repeat Offense
The 33-year-old Profar previously received an 80-game suspension on March 31, 2025, shortly after signing a three-year, $42 million contract with the Braves. Prior to joining Atlanta, he had a career year with the San Diego Padres, recording a .280 batting average, .380 on-base percentage, and .459 slugging percentage, with 24 home runs and 85 RBIs in 158 games.
Profar was expected to be a key contributor to the Braves’ lineup this season. However, the team demonstrated resilience in a spring training game on Saturday, tying the Baltimore Orioles 2-2.
Stepping Up in Profar’s Absence
Third baseman Austin Riley and left fielder Mike Yastrzemski each hit solo home runs during the game, with Riley’s traveling 361 feet and Yastrzemski’s going 373 feet. Manager Walt Weiss acknowledged the challenge of constructing lineups without Profar, stating, “There’s a lot of napkins on the floor,” and “There’s a lot of ways you can go with it.”
Several other players are showing promising results in spring training, including Riley (.294 average), Yastrzemski (.529 average), shortstop Mauricio Dubon (.313 average), right fielder Eli White (.316 average), and center fielder Michael Harris II (.400 average). While these statistics are based on only 14 games, they offer a glimpse of potential replacements.
Stars Ronald Acuna Jr. And Matt Olson are expected to remain consistent performers, but the Braves’ overall success in 2026 will depend on the performance of their supporting cast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to Jurickson Profar’s suspension?
Jurickson Profar was suspended for the entire 2026 season after testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs for a second time.
How long is Profar’s suspension?
Profar’s suspension is for 162 games, effectively covering the entire 2026 season.
Who are some players that could potentially fill Profar’s role?
Austin Riley, Mike Yastrzemski, Mauricio Dubon, Eli White, and Michael Harris II are among the players showing promising results in spring training and could be considered to fill Profar’s role.
Will the Braves be able to overcome this setback and contend for a playoff spot in 2026?
