Jurickson Profar has broken his silence after getting hit with an 80-game suspension from MLB.
On Monday, several reports emerged indicating that Profar had tested positive for a banned substance. The Atlanta Braves later confirmed the news in a statement.
Profar’s violation of MLB’s Joint Prevention And Treatment Program resulted in an 80-game suspension for the All-Star outfielder.
The 32-year-old addressed Braves fans shortly after news of his suspension was made public. Profar claimed his ingestion of the banned substance was not on purpose but respects the league’s decision.
You can read part of his statement below:
“Braves fans, today is the most difficult day of my baseball career,” wrote Profar. “I am devastated to announce that I have been suspended for 80 games by Major League Baseball and the Commissioner’s office, for testing positive for a banned substance this offseason. … I want to apologize to the entire Braves organization, my teammates, and the fans. It is because of my deep love and respect for this game that I would never knowingly do anything to cheat it. I have been tested my entire career, including eight times last season alone, and have never tested positive. I would never willingly take a banned substance, but I take full responsibility and accept MLB’s decision.”
The Braves signed Profar in the offseason after his breakout 2024 campaign with the San Diego Padres. Through 158 games, Profar slashed .280/.380/.459 with 24 home runs, 85 RBIs, and an OPS of .839. All marks were career highs for the Curaçaoan.
Atlanta used Profar as their leadoff hitter over the team’s first four games of the season. He went 3-for-15 with a walk during that brief stretch.
