Overview
- ESPN reported Tuesday that Profar tested positive for a performance-enhancing drug for the second time and will receive a 162-game suspension that cancels his 2026 salary.
- Profar signed a three-year deal worth roughly $42–45 million before the 2025 season so the Braves still face guaranteed money questions if they cut him loose.
- Reporters say Profar has been largely unreachable since the second suspension with one account saying he changed his phone number and stopped contacting teammates.
- The Braves have already added outfielder Lane Thomas and are scouting other left-field options including potential free-agent or international hitters as they weigh a long-term replacement.
- The ban highlights MLB’s rule that a second PED offense carries a full-season penalty and it leaves the club weighing clubhouse chemistry, fan reaction, and the financial cost of keeping or releasing him.