Jurickson Profar's shocking suspension for the second straight season has left the Atlanta Braves in an annoying spot. He was set to be their designated hitter on Opening Day, but that won't happen now. Profar likely won't play for the Braves again, but now Atlanta has to consider replacing him ahead of the 2026 season. There is one silver lining to the suspension: He won't be paid his $15 million salary this season.
Atlanta has some extra cash to work with, and that could help them at some point. A recent report by Braves insider Mark Bowman indicates Atlanta seems to be confident in their internal options for the rotation.
The remaining free agent arms available are Lucas Giolito and Zack Littell. They don't move the needle very much, and Atlanta is probably better off taking a chance with someone like JR Ritchie to start the season.
However, that money does give Alex Anthopoulos some money to play with in a trade situation. It's rare for a trade to happen this close to the season starting, but things could develop at any moment.
Braves could still turn to the trade market, but you can all but eliminate the free agent starter options
The offense could use another bat, but the Braves will try to fill that internally as well. Had Profar been suspended before Ozuna signed with the Pirates, Atlanta could have considered bringing him back. Ozuna signed a one-year, $12 million contract for the 2026 season. Atlanta's known for wanting to have money available for the trade deadline, so don't expect them to try and spend that money unless it's for a great deal.
There were some rumblings about the Orioles potentially moving Ryan Mountcastle. He's blocked at first by Pete Alonso and could be a candidate for designated hitter. He's a right-handed bat, and he also has left field experience. Mountcastle's contract is under $7 million for 2026 as well.
His power numbers dwindled last season, but he still hits the ball hard and catches a lot of barrels. While that would be good for Atlanta, it feels like any trade considerations would center around the rotation if anything.
It will be interesting to see if the Braves do anything or if they just trust in their depth to fill the void left after Profar's suspension.