Profar Returns to Action with the Bravos After Suspension
Atlanta – Jurickson Profar had a day of contrasts on Wednesday. He began by apologizing to his teammates in the Atlanta Braves clubhouse for missing 80 games due to a violation of the MLB’s drug prevention and treatment program. He finished the day talking to reporters in the same clubhouse, after going 2-for-4 with a home run and two runs scored in the Braves’ 8-3 victory over the Los Angeles Angels.Profar’s solo home run down the right field line came in the seventh inning, with the Braves leading 7-2. His two-out single in the sixth inning might have been more important, as it unleashed a seven-run offensive that allowed the Braves to take control of the game. Profar, who was an All-Star with the Padres last season after reaching career highs in home runs, RBIs, and OPS, signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Braves in the offseason. After four games, he was suspended without pay following his positive test for Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) and is not eligible for the 2025 postseason. He returned to a Braves team that had a 38-46 record entering Wednesday and that practically wasn’t getting any production from left field. The Braves were last in the majors in home runs (2) and OPS (.523) this season from that position.I had to talk to my teammates and the fans and everyone, and leave it behind. It’s about winning. I’m going to do everything I can to help the team win every night.
Jurickson Profar
Profar took responsibility for his failed drug test before the game and was glad to have the opportunity to speak with the team upon his return.It’s good to have that switch-hitter in the middle of the lineup and feel good when he’s there. He’s going to have a good at-bat and take some walks. That lengthens the lineup a bit.
Brian Snitker, Braves Manager
I know I put them in a very, very difficult position. But, again, I’m here and ready to go to battle with them and give everything I have to help us get to the playoffs.
Jurickson Profar
