The Atlanta Braves are dealing with a significant setback after outfielder Jurickson Profar received a 162-game suspension for a second violation of the league’s performance-enhancing drug (PED) policy. This ruling sidelines Profar for the entire upcoming season, creating a sudden gap in their lineup while freeing up a large portion of their salary cap space during early spring training.
Profar is expected to appeal the decision, but league officials are unlikely to change the suspension. His $15 million salary and $14 million luxury tax hit are now removed from the Braves’ payroll, providing general manager Alex Anthopoulos and the front office with unexpected financial flexibility amid roster uncertainty.
Injuries Compound Braves’ Depth Concerns During Spring Training
The suspension comes at a time when the Braves’ roster is already strained by injuries. Key players such as catcher Sean Murphy and shortstop Ha-Seong Kim have been sidelined in the early weeks of spring training, leaving the team with an urgent need for additional offensive and defensive support. These absences have heightened the imperative to find reliable players who can contribute quickly during the season’s opening weeks.
Andrew McCutchen Emerges as a Viable Temporary Reinforcement
Against this backdrop, veteran outfielder and former National League MVP Andrew McCutchen has appeared as a potential short-term option for the Braves. This scenario gained attention during a segment on MLB Network Radio hosted by Braves broadcaster C.J. Nitkowski. Co-host Ryan Spilborgh pointed out McCutchen’s availability, saying,
“You could go [Andrew] McCutchen, who’s still out there,”
and added,
“In that ballpark, it could be interesting, but he’s a quality guy, that’s for sure.”
Nitkowski highlighted how McCutchen might effectively fill a designated hitter role, especially in matchups against left-handed pitchers. He stated,
“To DH, at least against lefties, early-on [would make sense for McCutchen]. You’re basically looking for someone to hold it down over the next six to eight weeks, and be able to help out. But with Murphy, and eventually Kim… It’s going to get a little crowded.”
Potential Role and Impact of McCutchen Within Braves’ Lineup
If signed, McCutchen could also serve in a platoon outfield arrangement alongside Mike Yastrzemski, facing left-handed pitching while Yastrzemski handles right-handers. This strategy would primarily act as a bridge until injured players return, combining veteran experience with situational hitting to maintain the team’s competitiveness during an uncertain period.
At 39 years old, McCutchen carries a decorated career track record, including four Silver Slugger awards from 2012 to 2015 and an MVP season in 2013 with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Although his recent seasons have involved more of a reserve role, his 2025 campaign demonstrated ongoing productivity, slashing .239/.367/.367 with 13 home runs and 57 RBIs, indicating he can still contribute solid at-bats.
Front Office Weighs Cost-Effective Solutions Amid Thin Options
Nitkowski summarized the practical appeal of bringing McCutchen into the fold, stating,
“If Andrew McCutchen is comfortable coming in and filling that role, that might be the way to go. I’d take it. It’d be a good [addition]. It’s thin options right now, but it’s not going to be expensive.”
This assessment points to McCutchen as a savvy, budget-friendly option for the Braves as they navigate their early-season depth challenges caused by Profar’s suspension and multiple injuries.
