Jurickson Profar Receives 80-Game Suspension for PED Violation: What It Means for the Braves.
Jurickson Profar, the veteran outfielder for the Atlanta Braves, has been handed an 80-game suspension following a positive test for a banned substance under Major League Baseball’s PED policy. This suspension marks a major setback for the Braves as they navigate a tough start to their season.
Profar’s Suspension and the Impact on the Braves
Jurickson Profar was found to have tested positive for chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone that is considered a performance-enhancing drug according to MLB’s PED policy. The suspension began on Monday, coinciding with the Braves’ three-game series at Dodger Stadium. Profar will be allowed to return to the Braves on June 29, but his suspension includes ineligibility for the 2025 postseason. hCG is known to help stimulate the production of testosterone, as explained by the Cleveland Clinic.
The Braves expressed their disappointment in a statement, saying they were “surprised and extremely disappointed,” while adding they fully support MLB’s anti-drug program. They expressed hope that Profar would learn from this experience.
The Challenges Facing the Braves Amid Profar’s Suspension
Profar’s suspension adds to the struggles of the Braves, who were swept in a four-game series by the San Diego Padres over the weekend. The team scored just seven runs in the series, including a shutout in the final 22 innings. Adding to their troubles, starting pitcher Reynaldo López was placed on the injured list due to shoulder inflammation, forcing the Braves to call up Bryce Elder for his start on Wednesday.
In a heartfelt statement, Profar admitted that Monday was “the most difficult day of my baseball career.” He shared his devastation about the suspension and clarified that the positive test occurred during the offseason. Profar emphasized that his deep love for the game makes it especially painful for him, as he would never intentionally cheat the sport.
Profar’s Suspension and the Braves’ Next Steps
The Braves will feel the effects of Profar’s suspension, especially with Ronald Acuña Jr. still recovering from a torn ACL. The Braves responded by acquiring outfielder Stuart Fairchild from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for cash considerations. However, Fairchild will not join the team in Los Angeles until Tuesday, leaving the Braves with a roster spot short for their series opener against the Dodgers.
Manager Brian Snitker shared his disappointment but emphasized that the team would honor MLB’s drug policy. “It’s going to afford an opportunity for somebody else for 80 days,” Snitker said.
Looking Forward: The Braves Without Profar and López
In addition to Profar’s suspension, the Braves are dealing with the absence of López, who was coming off an All-Star season. López’s velocity was down in his first start of the season, and he is now sidelined with shoulder soreness. The Braves are hopeful that ace pitcher Spencer Strider will return in mid-April. However, the team will need to find a way to keep pushing forward without two key players.
Despite the setbacks, third baseman Austin Riley remained focused on the present, stating, “We’re just worried about this game. We’ll worry about today, against the Dodgers.”
As the Braves work to overcome these challenges, they are hoping to get Profar back in June, but the impact of his absence will be felt throughout the season.
