ATLANTA – Jurickson Profar kicked off his return to the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday with an apology to his teammates after sitting out 80 games due to a suspension for breaching Major League Baseball’s drug prevention and treatment guidelines. By the end of the day, Profar found himself speaking to media members, following a remarkable performance in the Braves’ 8-3 win over the Los Angeles Angels, where he went 2 for 4, hitting a home run and scoring twice.
“I was able to address my teammates, the fans, and everyone else, making amends and leaving the past behind,” Profar commented. “Winning is the ultimate goal, and I am committed to doing everything possible to help the team triumph every night.”
Profar’s solo home run in the seventh inning widened the Braves’ lead to 7-2. However, his pivotal single in the sixth inning triggered a significant seven-run rally that tipped the scale in favor of the Braves.
Having achieved All-Star status with the Padres the previous season due to personal bests in home runs, RBIs, and OPS, Profar transitioned to the Braves during the offseason on a three-year, $42 million deal. Shortly after joining, a positive test for Chorionic Gonadotrophin (hCG) led to a suspension without pay, making him ineligible for the 2025 postseason.
Upon his return, Profar entered a Braves ensemble struggling with a 38-46 record, notably lacking in left-field performances, with their position ranking last in the league for home runs and OPS.
Braves manager Brian Snitker expressed optimism, stating, “Having a switch hitter like him in the lineup is refreshing. He knows how to have a strong at-bat and is patient enough to draw walks, which extends our lineup nicely.”
Profar admitted fault over his failed drug test and appreciated the opportunity to reconnect with the team.
“I understand the difficult situation my actions caused,” he acknowledged. “But I’m back now, ready to fight alongside them, and willing to give everything to propel us towards the playoffs.”