The Atlanta Braves' signingof Jurickson Profar two years ago has quietly been one of the biggest free agency busts in recent franchise history. Getting suspended for the entire 2026 season for ignoring the league's banned substance list, only a season after getting a suspension for half the season for making the same decision. It is safe to say that if it happens in back-to-back years, it is a clear lack of care and not simply a fluke or confusion about the rules or what was being consumed. Regardless, the Braves have held onto the contract, understanding there is no escape from the final year of the deal.
Profar is owed $15 million in the final year of the deal, and while the second year's salary was voided due to suspension, that isn't the case for year three. Like it or not, the Braves are stuck paying Profar, making it clear that they have two choices when it comes to the future of the switch-hitting left fielder.
If the front office was going to punt on the deal and opt to turn the page, it would've happened the moment that Profar was caught breaking the league's rules for a second straight year. The fact that nothing has been done means the options are riding out the final year of the contract or looking for a possible salary dump.
Braves Have Two Clear Options as Frustration with Suspended Outfielder Jurickson Profar Grows
Profar is somewhat set up for failure as well in the fact that if the Braves made a World Series run or fall short in the postseason, the outfielder loses in either scenario. Either it is more fuel to be angry with a selfish decision, or the Braves prove they really didn't need the help of the outfielder, and turning the page grows easier.
With this in mind, it makes a great deal of sense to utilize the upcoming offseason to attempt to explore a potential salary dump. Finding a landing spot for Profar shouldn't be incredibly difficult, considering the reasonable salary and the ability to hit from both sides of the plate while offering a myriad of defensive options.
This same argument could be used to suggest that the Braves keep Profar and hope you get the 2023 version of the veteran. Profar was a consistent offensive contributor with the San Diego Padres and helped push the franchise to a playoff run. No question, it is easy to argue either side, and will be interesting to see where the Braves land.
Add us as a preferred source onGoogleLoading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations