The Atlanta Braves have suffered another blow to their outfield depth as infielder Jurickson Profar has been suspended for 80 games by Major League Baseball (MLB) after testing positive for a fertility drug.

Profar, who was acquired by the Braves in a trade with the Detroit Tigers earlier this year, had been having an impressive start to his season. The switch-hitting infielder had hit .259 with two home runs and nine RBIs in 24 games before being suspended by MLB.

The suspension is a result of Profar testing positive for Clomiphene Citrate, a fertility drug that is typically used to treat infertility in women but can also be abused by athletes to enhance performance. This is the first time Profar has tested positive for a PED in his career, and it marks a disappointing turn of events for the 28-year-old infielder.

The Braves organization has yet to comment on the suspension, but it’s clear that this news will have an impact on the team’s roster moving forward. With Profar out for 80 games, the Braves will need to find another solution to fill his role in the outfield and at second base.

Profar’s suspension is a reminder of the importance of player integrity in professional sports. While athletes often face pressure to perform and may turn to PEDs as a way to gain an edge, the risks associated with these substances far outweigh any perceived benefits.

As Profar serves out his 80-game suspension, he will be forced to miss some of the most critical games for the Braves’ playoff push. With the team currently sitting in second place in the National League East, every game counts, and the loss of a key player like Profar will likely have significant consequences for the team’s chances of winning the division.

The suspension also raises questions about how MLB plans to address the issue of PEDs in its players. While Profar’s test was positive, it’s worth noting that he had no prior suspensions on his record when he tested positive this time around. This highlights the importance of monitoring player testing and ensuring that athletes are held accountable for their actions.

Overall, Jurickson Profar’s 80-game suspension is a significant blow to the Atlanta Braves and serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle against PEDs in professional baseball.