The MLB teams have to step up and take the initiative to stop doping cases from happening. Because MLB players seem to be ignoring the consequences they will have to face if they get caught doping. Just like $42 million Atlanta Braves outfielder Jurickson Profar, who just got caught again.

Jeff Passan reported, “Jurickson Profar facing 162-game suspension after testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug for the second time.”

ESPN insider Jeff Passan reported Jurickson Profar faces a 162-game suspension after failing another PED test recently. If upheld, he forfeits his $15 million salary and becomes postseason ineligible under MLB drug policy rules.

This marks the sixth full-season PED suspension since MLB strengthened penalties for repeat offenders back in 2014. Atlanta now risks losing a projected designated hitter before lineup plans are even settled, entering the 2026 spring. Fans expecting stability instead confront another sudden absence tied directly to league discipline rather than injury setbacks.

This situation carries deeper weight because Profar already served an 80-game suspension beginning March 31, 2025.

News served to you like never before!

Prefer us on Google, To get latest news on feed

Prefer Us on Google

That penalty followed a positive test for hCG, a hormone linked to testosterone production under MLB rules. The suspension made him ineligible for the 2025 postseason and removed him from half the regular-season schedule.

Atlanta struggled that year, scoring only seven runs during an opening series sweep. Losing a middle-order bat during that stretch forced constant lineup reshuffling while injuries already tested roster depth.

When Atlanta signed Jurickson Profar to a three-year, $42 million contract, expectations rose across the clubhouse and fanbase. The deal followed a strong season that convinced the Braves he could stabilize their everyday lineup.

Team projected him batting near Ronald Acuña Jr., likely occupying the designated hitter spot. Instead, missing games across consecutive seasons means he will lose at least half of that contract’s scheduled game appearances.

The current suspension leaves Atlanta adjusting again despite adding Mike Yastrzemski to reinforce outfield depth earlier. Without Profar or Marcell Ozuna projected, the Braves must redistribute plate appearances effectively before the season begins.

His absence places heavier offensive responsibility on Matt Olson, Austin Riley, and Ozzie Albies. This adds to the fact that pitchers Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep already landed on the IL with elbow issues.

Under MLB policy, this suspension represents Profar’s second strike, carrying consequences far beyond one difficult season. League rules assign 80 games for a first offense, 162 games for a second, and permanent banishment after a third violation.

Players like J.C. Mejia never returned to affiliated baseball following similar penalties issued in September 2023. That reality now hangs quietly over every update, reminding fans how narrow the path forward has become. For Jurickson Profar, avoiding another violation is no longer about redemption alone but simply continuing a major league career.

With Profar, who can the Atlanta Braves replace him with?

Jurickson Profar might have messed up his 2026 season, but the Atlanta Braves can’t afford that. Alex Anthopoulos now faces the toughest winter of his Braves tenure after Jurickson Profar’s suspension. Losing a player expected to hit cleanup leaves a huge gap in production. With minimal high-end free agents available, Anthopoulos’ moves will define Atlanta’s credibility this offseason.

The hottest trade buzz centers around Georgia native Byron Buxton, who hit 35 homers and stole 24 bases over 126 games in 2025, showing real power and speed. Buxton’s blend of strength and speed makes him a rare bat, and in 2025, he posted an .878 OPS, ranking in baseball’s top tiers.

Atlanta’s front office could offer prized young pieces, including RHP Didier Fuentes, 20, and 17-year-old OF Diego Tornes, to get him. These prospects rank among Atlanta’s top talents and would be tempting for Minnesota to consider. Minnesota might actually discuss trading Buxton because its 2025 season ended with a 70-92 record, and rebuilding feels inevitable.

The Twins’ offense struggled overall last year, leaving them to lean on young players rather than contend. Buxton still carries value, and Minnesota could net multiple high-impact prospects for him to help a longer rebuild. Buxton also has a no-trade clause, which could complicate matters unless the Twins remain sellers.

If the Braves cannot swing a top-end trade, other choices include free agents or internal options who won’t match Profar’s profile. Tommy Pham or Max Kepler are out there, but neither offers the 35 homers Atlanta needs to replace lost power. Veterans like Mike Yastrzemski or Eli White can fill roster spots but lack consistent impact.

Ultimately, Anthopoulos must balance wins now with future cost, and every choice will be felt by Braves fans in 2026.