ESPN reports Braves’ Jurickson Profar faces 162-game ban for second positive PED test, a devastating blow to the team's lineup and morale. The designated hitter, who was set to earn $15 million this season, will now be suspended for the entire regular season, leaving a significant void in the Braves' lineup. This is Profar's second positive test for performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs), following a previous 80-game suspension last year for human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).
The 33-year-old Profar, a Curaçao native, was expected to be the team's primary designated hitter this season. However, the anticipated suspension will force new manager Walt Weiss to make significant lineup adjustments. According to the ESPN report, Profar will forfeit his $15 million salary and be ineligible for the postseason, further impacting the team's performance.
Profar's willingness to take on the designated hitter role, despite his history with PEDs, was praised by Weiss. "Profar’s a great teammate. He’s shown himself to be a leader on this team last year. Had some tough circumstances early on, came back an absolute pro and leader of this team. It shows that in the fact that he’s willing to (DH)."
The hCG drug, primarily used as a fertility medication for women, can also be used by male athletes to stimulate testosterone production. After his positive test last year, Profar released a statement denying intentional drug use, citing his deep love and respect for the game. The Braves expressed disappointment and hope for Profar's learning from the experience.
Profar's return to the team after his suspension was marked by a commitment to transparency. "I didn’t take anything on purpose, but, again, like I said in my statement, I’m responsible for what goes in my body," he said. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in the MLB regarding PEDs and the importance of player accountability.
This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.
