Braves’ Jurickson Profar Facing 162-Game Suspension After Second Positive Test

This blog post digs into the unfolding case of Atlanta outfielder Jurickson Profar. He’s staring down a possible 162-game suspension for a second reported PED violation.

Let’s look at what that penalty might mean for his career. We’ll also touch on how the grievance process works and what this could do to the Braves’ lineup and postseason plans.

With MLB’s process still in motion, fans should brace for a high-stakes decision. It could change both Profar’s future and the team’s strategy heading into 2025 and beyond.

The gravity of a second PED violation

If Profar gets a second 162-game suspension, he’ll miss almost the entire season. He’d also lose postseason eligibility and take a major financial hit under his contract.

The league’s policy treats a second offense as harshly as possible—a full season off the field. Waiting to appeal until after an official announcement starts a ticking clock for any disciplinary action.

Second PED violations that result in a 162-game ban aren’t common, but they’re not unheard of. Players like Jenrry Mejia, Marlon Byrd, and Robinson Canó all got hit with 162-game suspensions after a second infraction.

Mejia even ended up with a lifetime ban after a third positive test. These cases show how seriously MLB handles repeat offenders, and Profar’s career in Atlanta now hangs in the balance.

The grievance process, arbitration and timeline

Profar plans to ask the players’ association to file a grievance and appeal any discipline. The appeal would go to independent arbitrator Martin F. Scheinman.

Since this would be his second infraction, MLB will publicly announce the suspension before any appeal happens. Arbitration, led by someone like Scheinman, can affect both the punishment and when it actually kicks in—even as the league pushes forward with its own process.

Career impact and 2024-25 context

Profar’s recent play had fans expecting big things before this news broke. In 2024, he managed a .280 average, 24 homers, 85 RBIs, and an .839 OPS, grabbing an All-Star nod.

He bounced back from an 80-game suspension to finish 2023 strong. After sports hernia surgery in November, his health was a talking point.

This spring, he’s played in four games, going 3-for-10 with three RBIs. He was supposed to play for the Netherlands in the World Baseball Classic, but now that’s up in the air.

The financial side is rough. If Profar serves a 162-game ban, he’s out for the postseason and loses his $15 million salary for this year, part of a $42 million, three-year deal through 2027.

He already lost half of his $12 million 2025 salary from the first suspension. That kind of money lost really stings, especially for a player who was supposed to be a key part of Atlanta’s lineup.

Braves’ lineup and potential replacements

The Braves brought in Mike Yastrzemski to add depth, but they’ll have to rethink their lineup and DH strategy if Profar’s out. Someone else will need to step up in the outfield and DH roles.

Atlanta’s late-game matchups will change too, with Profar unavailable. It’s a tough spot, and the team’s going to have to get creative.

Possible fill-ins and opportunities

• Dominic Smith: He’s a versatile bat who might help out at a few spots in the lineup. Plus, he gives them a left-handed option.
• Drake Baldwin: Here’s a young prospect who could finally get a real shot to show he belongs in the majors.
• Eli White: He’s an athletic outfielder. If they need speed or defense in center or the corners, he could fill in.
• Mauricio Dubón: He’s got experience and can handle a bunch of positions. That flexibility might come in handy.

The Braves might juggle their DH strategy day-to-day, looking for more power or a defensive boost depending on the matchup. Profar’s suspension is hanging over everything, and it’s still unclear if the grievance process will change anything. Either way, Atlanta has to pivot fast to keep its postseason hopes alive in this crowded NL East.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Report: Braves’ Jurickson Profar faces 162-game suspension for second positive drug test