The Atlanta Braves are scrambling to find outfield help after Jurickson Profar received a 162-game suspension for his second PED violation. ESPN broke the news that the 33-year-old designated hitter tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs again, making him just the sixth player to face a full-season ban since MLB increased penalties for repeat offenders in 2014.
Profar will forfeit his entire $15 million salary, leaving Atlanta with a significant hole in their lineup and outfield depth.
Enter Byron Buxton.
The Minnesota Twins center fielder has been at odds with his organization all winter, creating what could be a perfect storm for the Braves to swoop in. CBS Sports reported that Buxton’s frustrated with the uncertainty surrounding the Twins’ front office changes and ownership’s commitment level.
It’s easy to see why Atlanta would be interested. Buxton’s a legitimate upgrade over Profar – when he’s healthy. The 31-year-old has played in more than 100 games in back-to-back seasons, something that seemed impossible just a few years ago given his injury history. He can handle center field or either corner, giving manager Brian Snitker flexibility in how he constructs his outfield.
“The Braves don’t have much of a choice. Buxton can play multiple outfield positions, including either of the corners. He’s a better player than Profar, full stop.”
That’s how FanSided’s Mark Powell sees it, and he’s got a point. Buxton brings elite defense, speed, and power when he’s on the field. The question has always been keeping him there.
From a financial standpoint, the timing actually works. With Profar’s salary coming off the books due to his suspension, Atlanta suddenly has the payroll flexibility to absorb Buxton’s contract. That’s not insignificant for a team that’s been mindful of spending in recent years.
The Twins seem ready to move on from their former franchise cornerstone, especially with all the organizational upheaval they’ve experienced this winter. New leadership might prefer a fresh start rather than dealing with an unhappy star player.
But here’s the thing about Buxton – he’s still really good when he plays. His defense alone makes him valuable, and his offensive ceiling remains high. The Braves would be betting that their training staff can keep him on the field more consistently than Minnesota has managed.
With spring training already underway, Atlanta doesn’t have the luxury of waiting around. They need outfield depth, and they need it now. The Profar suspension creates an emergency situation that requires quick action.
Whether it’s Buxton or someone else, the Braves front office has their work cut out for them in the coming days.
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