Braves News: Jurickson Profar out for season, Didier Fuentes, and more

Feb 27, 2026; North Port, Florida, USA; Atlanta Braves designated hitter Jurickson Profar (17) bats in the first inning against the Boston Red Sox during spring training at CoolToday Park. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images | Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images As expected, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jurickson Profar will miss the entire 2026 season after his PED suspension was upheld following an appeal. The ban covers 162 games and also renders him ineligible for the postseason.

Atlanta Braves outfielder Jurickson Profar will miss the entire 2026 season after his appeal of a positive PED test was resolved. He will serve a 162-game suspension for testing positive a second time and will be ineligible for postseason play. — Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) March 19, 2026 Major League Baseball announced earlier this month that Profar tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs.

This marks his second violation, as he previously served an 80-game suspension for a similar offense in 2025. The Major League Baseball Players Association filed an appeal on Profar’s behalf, but the decision ultimately stood. With the suspension now finalized, the Braves have some added financial flexibility, clearing several million dollars from the payroll.

Profar was expected to be in the Braves’ outfield mix this season, so his absence leaves the club with additional questions as they finalize roster decisions heading into Opening Day. More Braves News: All eyes are on Didier Fuentes after his performance this spring, but does he have a shot at the Opening Day roster? Right-hander Ian Hamilton was outrighted to Triple-A Gwinnett, leaving 41 players at camp.