The Atlanta Braves are hoping the 2025 season was simply a fluke and that they can move forward in 2026. However, early setbacks — including pitchers already dealing with injuries and Jurickson Profar receiving a season-long suspension — have made it feel like déjà vu.
“Atlanta Braves designated hitter Jurickson Profar is facing a 162-game suspension after testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug for the second time in the last year, sources told ESPN on Tuesday. Profar, 33, is the sixth player to receive a 162-game ban for PED use since Major League Baseball increased the penalty for two-time offenders to a full season in 2014. He will forfeit the entirety of his $15 million salary,” Jeff Passan wrote.
The outfield will once again be led by Ronald Acuña Jr., whose long-term future in Atlanta continues to be a topic of discussion.
“The Braves must also account for future extensions for other core players, making payroll allocation a delicate exercise. Retaining Acuña long term is a priority, but accomplishing it will not be easy. Bellinger pulled in $162 million despite his up-and-down career thus far. Signing Acuña will almost certainly require more, both in total dollars and years,” HTHB’s Chase Owens wrote. “With each big-money contract we see like Bellinger or Kyle Tucker or Bo Bichette, it feels increasingly likely that Ronald would have no trouble finding a deal worth at least $300 million if not significantly more.”
That decision is still likely a few years away. For now, the focus shifts to the World Baseball Classic, where Acuña is representing Venezuela. In the opening game, he faced his Braves teammate Ozzie Albies and the Netherlands. Venezuela came away with the victory, and Acuña quickly took a playful jab at his teammate afterward.
“I have a signed shirt for you, brother. Ozzie YOU CAN’T BEAT ME DAWG,” Acuna posted.
The two have been close friends since arriving in Atlanta, but the World Baseball Classic always adds a layer of competition. Venezuela earned a convincing 6–2 win in the matchup, with Acuña contributing at the plate while Albies struggled to find a hit.
The tournament brings together the best players in the world and showcases baseball on a global stage. For now, Acuña has the bragging rights over his Braves teammate. While he got the first laugh, anything can happen as the World Baseball Classic continues.
More MLB news:
