Jurickson Profar's stint as an Atlanta Braves starting outfielder lasted all of four games before turning sideways. Atlanta lost the outfielder to a suspension due to Profar using a banned substance.
The outfielder will be gone for 80 games and isn't allowed to return if Atlanta makes the postseason. If it was only 80 games, perhaps the Braves could survive the first half of the season with the impending return of Ronald Acuna Jr.
Losing Profar for nearly half the season and the postseason completely changes the team's potential ceiling and perspective. It is no longer surviving half a season with Alex Verdugo, Jarred Kelenic, and Bryan De La Cruz rotating in and out of the lineup. Even after Acuna returns, you're going to need to rely on one of these players as an everyday starter.
Kelenic's future with the Braves was already in question, and Atlanta's underwhelming offensive start hasn't helped this. Verdugo and De La Cruz are both wildcards who have had very inconsistent recent offensive performances. All of this points to Atlanta's need to make a move at the position before the trade deadline.
Atlanta can justify keeping their current rotation of options for the first weeks of the season. Profar is going to return and give the Braves a great trio of starters, including Michael Harris and Acuna. However, this isn't going to last if Atlanta bounces back from their rough start and reaches the expected heights.
The Braves are in a unique position of both expecting Profar to return in time for a postseason run and already understanding they will need a replacement. Unless one of their current trio inspires great confidence, Atlanta needs to make a move to trade or sign another starting option.
Atlanta cannot be viewed as a real postseason contender if they don't make a move to make up for the loss of their lead-off hitter. Yes, Acuna's return will help, but when you're matching up against the Philadelphia Phillies, San Diego Padres, and Los Angeles Dodgers with your season on the line, this team doesn't have quite enough.
Profar's suspension is a costly one marring the outfielder's reputation and further ruining what had already been a miserable start to Atlanta's season. One that is not only going to cost 80 games but will continue to haunt the Braves, taking out one of their starters ahead of any potential postseason run.