4. Jurickson Profar
Profar's decision to violate the league's policies cannot be blamed on Atlanta or the front office. There was every reason to believe that Profar was a great fit and would be exactly what the team's outfield was missing. Not only that, but Profar has experience playing all over the field and gives the team great flexibility if an injury were to strike. Now the team will be without the outfielder for 80 games this season.
Whether or not it was purposeful, the decisions that Profar made badly cost the outfielder's team. Not only will you miss a large chunk of the season, but the suspension means if there is an Atlanta postseason, you won't be a part of it. The league's rules are clear; putting your team first and being careful how you prepare and what you choose to take to do so is paramount.
Profar was selfish and cost a team that had invested heavily in the outfielder. Now, the veteran's window to make up for his mistake is somewhat meaningless if Atlanta is to make a postseason run.
5. AJ Smith-Shawver
Smith-Shawver had a strong enough spring that the team decided to trade starter Ian Anderson to open up the final spot in the Atlanta rotation. Smith-Shawver and Grant Holmes were expected to fill the bottom part of the rotation until Spencer Strider was able to return. To be fair, Smith-Shawver is still only twenty-two and has shown great stuff.
There is a level of deserved blame for the fact that you aren't executing at the level of a developing pitcher. The starter is making the exact same mistakes that Atlanta has been given a glimpse of in the previous two seasons.
If you're truly ready to take the next step, there must be a higher level of consistency and confidence to attack hitters. One miss or bad pitch, and it seems Smith-Shawver is shaken. The starter has shown some incredible sequences but is yet to offer any consistency and it is hurting Atlanta.