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wMar 1, 2025; North Port, Florida, USA; A detail view of Atlanta Braves hat, sunglasses and glove in the dugout during the fifth inning at CoolToday Park. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
The Atlanta Braves are just a couple of weeks away from the start of the 2026 season, which has fans excited. However, the suspension of Jurickson Profar continues to overshadow everything.
“Atlanta Braves designated hitter Jurickson Profar is facing a 162-game suspension after testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug for the second time in the last year, sources told ESPN on Tuesday. Profar, 33, is the sixth player to receive a 162-game ban for PED use since Major League Baseball increased the penalty for two-time offenders to a full season in 2014. He will forfeit the entirety of his $15 million salary,” Jeff Passan wrote.
Profar was suspended for the second consecutive season, leading many to call his contract with the Braves the worst in franchise history.
“Considering the context and circumstances – with the slim chance based on precedent that a 162-game suspension isn't forthcoming – I can confidently say that Jurickson Profar is the worst free-agent signing in Braves history,” Braves reporter Grant McAuley wrote.
While Profar remains on the roster for now, the Braves are in no rush to act. Once a decision is made, many believe Atlanta should part ways with him.
“The Braves don't have to take any action for a while. With Profar not getting a dime of his 2026 salary thanks to his suspension, and with a looming labor negotiation battle approaching in 2027, Atlanta is fine to leave their worst free agent signing in recent history rot on the restricted list and see if a lockout can knock off any more of the $15 million they still owe him. Once there's clarity on the 2027 season, however, the Braves only have two options: trade Profar and hope a team is willing to eat some of the contract, or simply release him,” HTHB’s Mitchell Barbee wrote.
The Braves are expected to act if Profar’s suspension is upheld after the Players Association’s appeal. If the ruling stands, Atlanta will likely be done with him for good.
Profar was initially an exciting signing for the organization, but it has since turned into chaos. The Braves still believe they have the pieces to compete, and once Profar is officially removed from the roster, they can finally move forward.
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