Braves Confront Rotation Crunch as Profar’s Reported 162-Game Ban Opens New Roster Questions

Overview

• ESPN reporting cited by multiple outlets says Jurickson Profar faces a 162-game PED suspension that would forfeit his $15 million salary, leaving a vacancy at designated hitter.
• Starting depth has deteriorated in camp, with Spencer Schwellenbach placed on the 60-day injured list for right elbow inflammation and Joey Wentz reported to have torn an ACL, while Hurston Waldrep is also out.
• Battery Power’s March 12 roster projection leans on internal options, listing Chris Sale, Spencer Strider, Reynaldo López, Grant Holmes, Bryce Elder and prospect JR Ritchie in early-season roles.
• The same projection leaves DH unfilled and points to veteran Dominic Smith as a likely bench option as the team evaluates late-camp alternatives.
• Sporting News coverage features speculative paths to bolster pitching, including a potential trade pursuit of Sandy Alcantara or a lower-cost signing such as Nestor Cortes, presented as predictions rather than firm plans.