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Braves' Jurickson Profar Breaks Silence Following MLB Suspension News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Zach Kaplan | Last updated Mar 31, 2025 6:30 PM ET

Atlanta Braves star outfielder Jurickson Profar was suspended for 80 games on Monday after a test revealed he was using a testosterone-boosting drug to enhance his performance.

Profar signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Braves over the offseason following a strong 2024 season with the San Diego Padres. Profar bat .280 with a .839 OPS, 24 HRs and 85 RBIs and rightfully earned his payday.

However, Profar's season will be put on pause for an extended period of time following a positive test for hCG, a drug that was the source of legendary slugger Manny Ramirez's 50-game suspension in 2009.

Profar broke the silence on Monday, issuing a statement to Braves fans and the rest of the league.

A statement from Jurickson Profar … pic.twitter.com/n3KAli1pY5
— Alden González (@Alden_Gonzalez) March 31, 2025

"I have been tested my entire career, including eight times last season alone, and have never tested positive," Profar wrote. "I would never willingly take a banned substance, but I take full responsibility and accept MLB's decision," he added.

The Braves released the following statement:

"We were surprised and extremely disappointed to learn that Jurickson Profar tested positive for a performance-enhancing substance in violation of Major League Baseball's Joint Prevention and Treatment Program. We fully support the Program and are hopeful that Jurickson will learn from this experience."

Profar's suspension is a huge blow to a Braves team already stretched-thin on offense, with catcher Sean Murphy and Ronald Acuna Jr among the list of big names that are working back from injury. Should the Braves make the postseason, Profar would also not be eligible.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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