On Tuesday, the Atlanta Braves confirmed that outfielder Jurickson Profar received a 162-game suspension after testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs for a second time. The team expressed deep disappointment over Profar’s violation of Major League Baseball‘s Drug Prevention and Treatment Program, emphasizing their commitment to educating players about the policy and its consequences. This development came shortly after Profar was withdrawn from Team Netherlands’ lineup for a World Baseball Classic exhibition game against the Baltimore Orioles.
Background on Jurickson Profar’s Career and Prior Suspension
Profar, a native of Willemstad, Curacao, began his MLB career with the Texas Rangers in 2012 at age 19. His journey included stints with the Oakland Athletics, San Diego Padres, and Colorado Rockies before signing as a free agent with the Braves in January 2025. After his arrival in Atlanta, Profar faced an 80-game suspension earlier that year for testing positive for a banned substance. He played in four games before serving that suspension until early July. During 80 games, Profar recorded a .245 batting average, .353 on-base percentage, and a .434 slugging percentage, with 14 home runs, 43 RBIs, and 56 runs scored.
The Substance Behind the Suspension
Jurickson Profar tested positive for Exogenous Testosterone, a synthetic hormone that replaces natural testosterone and may have adverse effects on male fertility. His previous suspension in March 2025 resulted from a positive test for Chorionic Gonadotropin, a medication often used to counteract steroid-induced infertility. These substances violate MLB’s anti-doping rules and triggered the extended ban.
Contract Details and Financial Implications During Suspension
Last January, Profar signed a three-year deal with the Braves worth $42 million, following his breakout All-Star season with the Padres where he set personal bests in several offensive categories. For the 2026 season, he was slated to earn $15 million but will not receive pay during the 162-game suspension as per MLB regulations concerning such violations.
Impact on the Braves’ Lineup and Roster Adjustments
Profar’s suspension leaves a critical gap in the Braves’ expected lineup, where he was projected to primarily serve as a left fielder and designated hitter. To fill the void, the club appears ready to have Eli White and Mike Yastrzemski alternate in left field. Additionally, Dominic Smith, who joined the team on a minor league contract in February, could assume the designated hitter role at the start of the season. When catcher Sean Murphy returns from injury mid-May, backup catcher Drake Baldwin might see increased starts as DH while also covering behind the plate.
Rising Concerns and What Lies Ahead for the Braves
This second PED suspension throws uncertainty over the Braves’ offensive depth and overall team chemistry during a crucial season. It also raises concerns about Profar’s future in the league and the club’s trust in its roster stability. How the Braves manage this challenge, particularly with key players like Sean Murphy and Drake Baldwin affected, will shape their competitiveness in the coming months. MLB and fans alike will watch closely as the team adapts to this significant setback.
“We were incredibly disappointed to learn that Jurickson tested positive for a performance-enhancing substance and is in violation of MLB’s Drug Prevention and Treatment Program,” Atlanta Braves statement
Statement from the Atlanta Braves: pic.twitter.com/T95JTRNuNr
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) March 4, 2026
MLB announced #Braves Jurickson Profar tested positive for Exogenous Testosterone, triggering a 162-game ban for his 2nd PED suspension.
This substance replaces the body's natural testosterone production and negatively affects male fertility, just in case anyone needed to know.
— Grant McAuley (@grantmcauley) March 4, 2026
