MLB INSIDER ENCOURAGES BRAVES TO CUT JURICKSON PROFAR LOOSE AFTER FAILED APPEAL

🚨BREAKING NEWS: Jurickson Profar’s tenure with the Atlanta Braves appears to be over after his appeal was officially denied, leaving the team with little choice but to part ways. MLB Insider Ken Rosenthal recently weighed in, suggesting the Braves should release Profar and move on from the situation once and for all.

Rosenthal advised that the Braves should “eat it” and not waste any more time or resources on Profar, who has already compromised the team enough with his off-field issues.

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Profar’s Failed Appeal and the Braves’ Dilemma

Jurickson Profar’s appeal for a reduced suspension was officially rejected earlier this week, with his 162-game suspension for testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) upheld by Major League Baseball. This suspension is without pay, costing Profar $15 million in salary this season. The Braves are still on the hook for the same amount next year, unless Profar fails another drug test, in which case he could face a lifetime ban from the league.

Profar’s positive test came after he was already suspended for 80 games in 2025 for a previous violation related to chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone that aids in testosterone production. His absence last season didn’t stop the Braves from signing him, but his second suspension leaves the team in a precarious position.

With the suspension upheld, Profar has already proven to be a liability, and Rosenthal strongly believes the Braves should not keep him on their roster moving forward.

Rosenthal’s Advice: Cut Ties with Profar

Ken Rosenthal advised that the Braves should release Profar without hesitation. “If I’m them, I eat it,” Rosenthal said on Foul Territory. “I don’t worry about going forward with Jurickson Profar at that point. He has compromised them enough.”

Profar’s contract situation also impacts the Braves’ ability to maneuver with their payroll. Since Profar’s deal is now off the books, the Braves could potentially use that financial flexibility to address other roster needs, like adding a starting pitcher or bolstering their outfield. Rosenthal also mentioned that they could pursue players like Lucas Giolito to address pitching concerns, or even add Dominic Smith as a potential outfield option.

Profar’s Impact on the Braves and Their Roster

The Braves had hoped Profar could provide depth to their roster, but his suspension has forced them into an uncomfortable position. The 30-year-old outfielder was expected to add value to the team in both offense and defense, but after his failed appeal, he has become more of a financial burden than a contributor.

With his suspension in place and the Braves already set in their outfield with players like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Eddie Rosario, there is no clear path forward for Profar. The Braves’ roster has limited spots, and given his current situation, it makes more sense for them to cut ties and move on.

The Braves’ Rotation and Potential Additions

With Profar’s salary freed up, the Braves have room to make moves that better align with their championship aspirations. As of now, the Braves’ starting rotation looks set with Chris Sale, Spencer Strider, Reynaldo López, and Grant Holmes confirmed as the primary starters, and Bryce Elder being the most likely option for the fifth spot.

However, with rotation depth always a concern, Rosenthal highlighted that the Braves could look to sign free-agent starter Lucas Giolito. His addition would solidify the team’s pitching staff, giving them another experienced arm to pair with their top-tier rotation.

In addition, the Braves could explore adding an outfield bat to provide some depth. Dominic Smith, currently in camp with the team, could be an option to fill this role, as he would provide a left-handed bat capable of handling right-handed pitching.

The Braves also signed Rowdy Tellez to a minor league deal on Friday. However, it’s expected that Tellez will need some time in Triple-A before he can be considered for a spot on the 40-man roster.

Conclusion: Time for the Braves to Move On from Profar

With Profar’s suspension and the lack of a clear path for him to contribute in the near future, it’s time for the Atlanta Braves to cut their losses and move on. The team has enough depth to absorb his absence and can use the freed-up financial space to strengthen other areas of the roster, particularly their pitching staff and outfield.

For the Braves, the future is now, and they can’t afford to let off-field issues dictate the success of their season. The best course of action is to part ways with Profar, continue making smart moves, and focus on building a roster that can contend for a championship in 2026.

Stay tuned to ESPN for more updates on the Braves’ roster moves and what this decision means for the team moving forward.