The season has just started… and we already have the first big scandal in MLB. Jurickson Profar, a player for the Atlanta Braves, has been suspended for 80 games after being accused of using substances to enhance his performance, specifically human chorionic gonadotropin, after testing positive in a routine drug test.

Profar accepts the penalty

The penalty imposed on Jurickson Profar by MLB will prevent him from returning to the field with the Atlanta Braves until early July. However, his participation in the 2025 postseason is completely ruled out. This is devastating news for the Braves, who signed him to a three-year, $42 million contract to become the starting outfielder after an excellent campaign with the San Diego Padres.

Profar, for his part, stated in a statement released by the Major League Baseball Players Association that he “would never knowingly cheat.” However, he accepted the penalty with sportsmanship: "I’ve been tested throughout my career, including eight times last season, and have never tested positive. I would never voluntarily take a banned substance, but I take full responsibility and accept MLB’s decision."

Atlanta Braves can’t catch a break

Adding to the injury of Ronald Acuña Jr., whose position has been filled by Jarred Kelenic and Bryan De la Cruz, this suspension handed down by MLB to Jurickson Profar comes at the worst possible time for the Atlanta Braves. Therefore, it’s expected that Alex Verdugo, who was sent to the minors after signing a $1.5 million contract, will join the team’s lineup.

The suspension of Jurickson Profar took effect immediately, and he was unavailable for the loss to the LA Dodgers last night in the first of their three upcoming matchups. With this loss, the Atlanta Braves have now suffered five defeats in their first five games of the season. A rough start to the season… which is further compounded by off-field issues.