Report: Atlanta Braves’ Profar suspended for 80 games

By Justin Gray | Sports editor

After the worst start since 2021 (0-4, swept by San Diego), things continue to get worse for Atlanta on the West Coast as its starting left fielder Jurickson Profar,was suspended for violating Major League Baseball’s performance-enhancing drug policy.

Profar tested positive for human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a drug used to restart natural testosterone production after a steroid cycle. Manny Ramirez also tested positive for hCG during his career.

This comes after the 32-year-old’s best season, when he hit .280 with 24 home runs and 85 RBIs for San Diego.

The MLB Players Association released a statement on Profar’s behalf on social media:

Braves fans,

Today is the most difficult day of my baseball career. I am devastated to announce that I have been suspended for 80 games by Major League Baseball and the commissioner’s office for testing positive for a banned substance this offseason. This is especially painful for me because anyone who knows me and has seen me play knows I am deeply passionate about the game.

There is nothing I love more than competing with my teammates and being a fan favorite.

I want to apologize to the entire Braves organization, my teammates, and the fans. It is because of my deep love and respect for this game that I would never knowingly do anything to cheat it.

I have been tested my entire career, including eight times last season alone, and have never tested positive. I would never willingly take a banned substance, but I take full responsibility and accept MLB's decision.

I am devastated that I won’t be on the field with my teammates for the next 80 games. I look forward to competing again at the highest level this season upon my return.

Profar will be eligible to return June 29 when Atlanta faces Philadelphia, but he will be ineligible for the postseason should the Braves qualify.

Atlanta’s plan of action regarding his absence remains to be seen.

For now, this suspension will surely leave a sour taste in Braves fans’ mouths and damage Profar’s reputation, as he will be viewed alongside other PED violators.

Additionally, Atlanta fans may question whether he can maintain his 2024 breakout performance, as he was an average player before last season and remains under contract for three more years.

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Contact Justin Gray at jusgray@augusta.edu.