Jurickson Profar suspended 80 games for PED violation

Atlanta Braves outfielder Jurickson Profar has been suspended for 80 games without pay after testing positive for the banned substance Chorionic Gonadotrophin (hCG), violating Major League Baseball's performance-enhancing drug policy. The suspension is effective immediately, and Profar will be eligible to return on June 29. This news comes as the Braves are struggling early in the season, having lost their first four games against the Padres, and raises concerns about the team's outfield depth with Profar's absence. The Braves had recently acquired outfielders in anticipation of challenges, but losing Profar adds to their worries, especially with Ronald Acuña Jr.'s uncertain recovery from a second torn ACL. The situation has led to intensified scrutiny of the Braves' roster and bullpen, which were already underperforming. Profar had signed a three-year, $42 million deal with the Braves prior to the season.