Report: Profar facing 162-game ban for 2nd positive PED test, out of WBC
Atlanta Braves designated hitter Jurickson Profar is facing a 162-game suspension for testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug for the second time, sources told Jeff Passan of ESPN.
Profar previously received an 80-game ban in March 2025 for violating MLB's performance-enhancing drug policy. At that time, he tested positive for human chorionic gonadotropin, a hormone that produces testosterone.
The 2024 All-Star will have to surrender his $15-million salary for 2026 and will be ruled ineligible for the postseason, according to Passan. Profar also won't be allowed to represent the Netherlands in the upcoming World Baseball Classic.
Profar will reportedly become the seventh player to receive a 162-game suspension since MLB increased the penalty for repeat offenders in 2014. A third positive test carries a lifetime ban.
The MLBPA plans to file a grievance to challenge Profar's looming suspension, a source told Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic.
The Braves signed Profar to a three-year, $42-million contract in January 2025. He hit 14 homers with 43 RBIs and a .787 OPS in 80 contests last season.
A potential season-long ban for the 33-year-old is another blow to Atlanta before the 2026 campaign begins. The club is already without starting pitchers Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep due to elbow injuries, and shortstop Ha-Seong Kim will be sidelined four-to-five months following hand surgery in January.