The Atlanta Braves hoped that when they signed Jurickson Profar last offseason, he'd be a boost to the offense. Unfortunately, it wasn't long before we learned they'd have to play half of the season without him.
Profar was suspended for 80 games after testing positive for hCG, a substance that is banned by Major League Baseball as a performance-enhancing drug. Not the first impression one would like to make after signing a three-year, $42 million contract.
Once reinstated, he posted a .245/.353/.434 slash line with 16 doubles, 14 homers, 43 RBI, and an .878 OPS over 80 games played. Unfortunately, he tanked in September, with a .200 average and .625 OPS over 23 games.
We've since learned that he was dealing with some discomfort from a hernia. Profar received surgery to repair this in November, and that took six weeks to heal. So, he's healthy and ready to go for spring training. But that at least gives some idea why his performance dropped off.
Atlanta's switch-hitting left fielder was recently asked about his feelings on being the designated hitter once the 2026 season starts. His answer wasn't taken very well, especially since he grimaced and chuckled before responding.
Jurickson Profar would do well to remember his current reputation among Braves fans going forward
According to Braves insider Mark Bowman, Profar said, "Let's see. Let's see. Let's see. I'm just here to help the team."
Jurickson Profar was asked about playing DH.
— 680 The Fan (@680TheFan) February 15, 2026
His face said it all — but he said he’s here to help the team however he’s needed.
🎥 @chrisdimino pic.twitter.com/qXIaXB8DwX
So, Profar was not overtly thrilled about being the DH. However, he made sure to mention he is just there to help the team. It's easy to see the point that Profar should be doing everything he can to make up for being suspended most of last season.
However, there is some great commentary around how every MLB player wants to be on the field as often as possible. The designated hitter role holds a bit more weight than it used to, and manager Walt Weiss saw no issues with Profar's response.
"To be honest, I don't think any player is raising their hand, unless they're a full-time DH, to say, 'Yeah, I mean, that's what I want to do,'" Weiss said. "He's a great teammate. We've had this conversation." We found out that AA reached out to Profar before Atlanta signed Yastrzemski, and Profar was happy with the decision.
It's not like Profar is the best defender in the outfield, and Yaz is much better on that front. There's plenty of reason for the Braves to improve in every area. Clearly, Weiss isn't worried about Profar's comments and believes he's a great teammate. So, it felt weird to then see some Braves insiders and fans assume that Profar wasn't willing to be a team player. Especially when there is plenty of evidence to prove he said otherwise.
“Last year wasn’t a really good year for me and the team, but the team is looking really, really good,” Profar said. “I’m just here ready to help the team make the postseason and go from there.”
That sure seems like someone willing to do what is needed to help the team. Yes, it isn't a good look for Profar to have any negative reaction after he was suspended last season. He's lucky to be able to play again this year. However, that doesn't mean he isn't going to go out and do his job.