The Atlanta Braves had a rough weekend against the San Diego Padres, getting swept, and now they face another major setback. MLB has suspended outfielder Jurickson Profar for 80 games due to performance-enhancing drugs, according to Mike Rodríguez.
Per league rules, Profar will be eligible to return just before the All-Star break, but he will not be allowed to participate in the playoffs if the Braves clinch a postseason spot in October.
«We were surprised and extremely disappointed to learn that Jurickson Profar tested positive for a performance-enhancing substance in violation of Major League Baseball’s Joint Prevention and Treatment Program», said the Braves in a statement on Monday. «We fully support the Program and are hopeful that Jurickson will learn from this experience».
Jurickson Profar signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Braves in January. He was set to earn $12 million in 2025 but will now receive just over $6 million due to his unpaid suspension.
«I want to apologize to the entire Braves organization, my teammates, and the fans», said Profar in a statement shared by Alden González. «It is because of my deep love and respect for this game that I would never knowingly do anything to cheat it».
The Braves also acquired Stuart Fairchild from the Cincinnati Reds today in exchange for cash considerations after learning about Profar’s suspension. They also transferred Joe Jiménez to the 60-day injured list to make room for Fairchild.
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«I have been tested my entire career, including eight times last season alone, and have never tested positive», said Profar in a statement released on Monday. «I would never willingly take a banned substance, but I take full responsibility and accept MLB’s decision».
