Anthony Arroyo
According to MLB insider Mike Rodriguez, Atlanta Braves All-Star outfielder Jurickson Profar has reportedly tested positive for a banned substance. As a result, Profar is expected to face a suspension, though the exact length has yet to be confirmed. As a first-time offender, he will likely receive an 80-game suspension under MLB’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program.
After a breakout year with the San Diego Padres, the 32-year-old outfielder signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Braves this past offseason. In his first All-Star season, Profar posted a .280/.380/.459 slash line with 24 home runs and 85 RBIs, finally delivering on the promise he showed as baseball’s top prospect in 2013.
Profar had expressed a desire to remain in San Diego, but after not receiving a contract offer from the Padres, he signed with Atlanta and took over as the team’s leadoff hitter at the start of the season. With this reported suspension looming, his debut season with the Braves will be put on hold.
Neither MLB nor the Braves have issued a statement, but if confirmed, Profar’s suspension would be a major setback for Atlanta as they adjust their lineup.
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