ATLANTA — In a stunning turn of events, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jurickson Profar has been suspended for 80 games without pay following a positive test for a banned performance-enhancing substance. Major League Baseball announced the suspension on Monday, March 31, 2025, revealing that Profar tested positive for Chorionic Gonadotrophin (hCG), a substance that violates the league’s joint drug prevention and treatment program.
The suspension is effective immediately, meaning Profar will be sidelined until at least June 29, when he could potentially return to face the Philadelphia Phillies. The financial implications are significant; Profar will lose $5,806,440 of his $12 million salary during this suspension. Additionally, he will not be eligible for postseason play, should the Braves qualify.
At 32 years old, Profar was coming off a standout season with the San Diego Padres, where he earned an All-Star selection and a Silver Slugger award. He batted .280, setting career highs with 24 home runs and 85 RBIs. In the offseason, he signed a lucrative three-year, $42 million contract with the Braves, making this suspension particularly painful for both him and the organization.
In his statement regarding the suspension, Profar expressed deep regret, stating, "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." He emphasized his passion for the game, saying, "There is nothing I love more than competing with my teammates and being a fan favorite." Profar also took the opportunity to apologize to the Braves organization, his teammates, and the fans, stating, "It is because of my deep love and respect for this game that I would never knowingly do anything to cheat it."
Profar further clarified his stance on the issue, saying, "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." His commitment to the game and honesty about the situation highlights the complexity surrounding performance-enhancing drug use in sports.
The Braves released their own statement in response to the news, expressing their surprise and disappointment. "We are 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. We fully support the Program and are hopeful that Jurickson will learn from this experience," the statement read.
This suspension marks Profar as the fourth player this year to face disciplinary action for violating the performance-enhancing substance policy, with previous cases involving minor league players. Notably, last season saw only two suspensions under the major league drug program. The league continues to crack down on substance abuse, aiming to maintain the integrity of the game.
Profar's absence will undoubtedly impact the Braves, who are currently struggling with a 0-4 record at the start of the season. The team is already dealing with the effects of Ronald Acuña Jr.'s ongoing rehabilitation from a torn ACL, making the need for offensive production even more critical. With Profar out of the lineup, the Braves will need to find alternative ways to generate runs and support their pitching staff.
As Profar prepares to serve his suspension, he remains hopeful for a return to the field. "I look forward to competing again at the highest level this season upon my return," he stated, signaling his determination to overcome this setback and regain his place in the lineup.
Profar's journey in Major League Baseball has been a rollercoaster ride since his debut in 2012. He has played for multiple teams, including the Texas Rangers, Oakland Athletics, and the Padres, accumulating a career batting average of .245 with 111 home runs and 444 RBIs over 1,123 games. His recent success with the Padres and subsequent move to Atlanta had fans excited about his potential impact on the Braves this season.
As the Braves navigate the early part of the season without Profar, the focus will shift to how they adapt to his absence and what this means for their playoff aspirations. The organization and its fans will be watching closely as the situation develops, hoping for a swift resolution and a strong return from Profar in the latter half of the season.
In the world of sports, the stakes are high, and the pressure to perform can lead to difficult decisions. Jurickson Profar's suspension serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against performance-enhancing drugs in professional sports. As the Braves look to turn their season around, the impact of this incident will undoubtedly be felt both on and off the field.
