Braves' Profar suspended 80 games for PED violation

Major League Baseball suspended Atlanta Braves outfielder Jurickson Profar for 80 games on Monday for violating its performance-enhancing drug policy.

Profar tested positive for HCG, a source told Joel Sherman of the New York Post. One of HCG's effects includes boosting testosterone production.

The switch-hitting 32-year-old joined the Braves on a three-year, $42-million contract this past offseason after a breakout 2024 campaign with the San Diego Padres.

"Today is the most difficult day of my baseball career," Profar said in a statement, according to ESPN's Alden González. "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 ineligible to play in the postseason under MLB's current roster rules and eligibility requirements.

The 12-year-veteran hit a career-high 24 home runs last season while posting his highest slugging percentage (.459) in a season with at least 100 at-bats. His average exit velocity of 91.1 mph was in the 80th percentile and substantially higher than the 86.5 mph he put up in 2023.

He recorded three hits in 15 at-bats during the Braves' first four games of 2025.

Atlanta added outfield depth earlier Monday by acquiring Stuart Fairchild from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for cash considerations.

Profar owns a career .245/.331/.394 slash line with 111 home runs.

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