Atlanta Braves manager Walt Weiss has stressed the importance of staying focused since spring training began, yet his team faces a significant hurdle as Jurickson Profar received a full-season suspension for a second positive performance-enhancing drug (PED) test. This development, occurring just weeks into the 2026 season, poses a major obstacle for Weiss and the Braves as they navigate a long and demanding Major League campaign.
Profar’s Return and the Unexpected Setback
Profar’s reopening with the Braves in 2025 was troubled by an initial suspension, but after his return midseason, he earned respect within the clubhouse and improved his standing among coaches and players. Weiss noted in an interview with Foul Territory how Profar had “won him over” with his commitment and behavior during the latter part of last year. The team had anticipated that Profar would expand on this progress in 2026, making the news of another suspension all the more disappointing.
Managing the Fallout and Maintaining Team Stability
Despite feeling stunned and frustrated by Profar’s second violation, Weiss has worked to stabilize the clubhouse. Comparing the current suspension to past unpredictable challenges such as Ronald Acuña Jr.’s 2021 knee injury, Weiss underscored that while such events are unwelcome, they can sometimes spur growth within a team. The Braves’ manager remains focused on keeping the team’s morale intact and ensuring that adversity does not derail their season ambitions.
Opportunity Amid Adversity for the Braves
While Profar’s suspension is undoubtedly a setback, Weiss views it as a chance for other players to step up and strengthen the culture he aims to build in Atlanta. The team must rally around maintaining discipline and commitment, especially early in the season, to transform this challenge into motivation that could benefit the Braves in the long run. Weiss’s leadership will be critical in guiding the club through this unexpected trial and keeping their focus on the goal of sustained success.
“He was going to have to win us over, certainly win me over, and he did.” Walt Weiss, Braves manager
"He was going to have to win us over, certainly win me over, and he did."
Braves manager Walt Weiss says he was very disappointed and stunned when he found out about Jurickson Profar's second positive PED test. pic.twitter.com/sAlRHfPsPt
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) March 9, 2026
