Braves Face Major Setback as Jurickson Profar Receives 80-Game Suspension

The Atlanta Braves are grappling with a significant setback after outfielder Jurickson Profar was suspended for 80 games due to a positive test for performance-enhancing drugs, rendering him ineligible for the playoffs if the team qualifies. Profar, who signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Braves, had been expected to play a crucial role in the team's lineup after an impressive 2024 season. In light of Profar's suspension, the Braves are now exploring options to bolster their outfield, with a focus on acquiring a big-name player like Luis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox. Atlanta's rough start to the season includes being winless in their first four games and a recent acquisition of outfielder Stuart Fairchild to help fill the gap left by Profar. The team's management, led by Alex Anthopoulos, may have anticipated Profar's suspension, as they had already begun making moves to secure outfield depth. Overall, the Braves face a challenging season ahead as they adjust to this unexpected loss in their roster.