The Atlanta Braves have designated outfielder Alex Verdugo for assignment to make room for Jurickson Profar, who returns Wednesday from an 80-game PED suspension, according to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal. Profar is expected to start in left field against the Los Angeles Angels.
Verdugo, a nine-year veteran, struggled this season, hitting .239 with a .585 OPS in 56 games. His performance dipped significantly after a strong start, batting just .203 with a .481 OPS in his last 42 games. The Braves’ left fielders have been the league’s least productive offensively, with a .207 average and a .522 OPS.
Eli White and Stuart Fairchild, who offer better speed and defense, have filled in recently. Verdugo, signed for $1.5 million in spring training, was initially the everyday left fielder but was overtaken after Ronald Acuña Jr.’s return and his own prolonged slump.
