**Braves Hit with Double Whammy: Profar Suspended, Lopez Injured in Brutal March 31st Blow**
The Atlanta Braves’ final day of March delivered a cruel twist, feeling more like an April Fool’s nightmare than the eve of a new season. The team absorbed two significant losses: outfielder **Jurickson Profar to an 80-game suspension** and starter **Reynaldo López to the 15-day IL**.
Amid the setbacks, a glimmer of hope emerged as catcher **Sean Murphy** prepares to begin his Triple-A rehab assignment. But the most anticipated update came from manager **Brian Snitker** regarding superstar **Ronald Acuña Jr.**’s recovery from knee surgery.
**Key Takeaways:**
**Acuña’s Progress:** Snitker revealed the 2023 NL MVP is on track to **begin outfield drills in April** (once medically cleared), though he hasn’t yet started cutting movements.
⏳ **Timeline Unchanged:** A mid-to-late May return remains the expectation, confirming Acuña’s rehab is **progressing but not accelerated**.
⚠️ **Roster Crunch:** With Profar suspended until midseason and López sidelined, the Braves must navigate early-season challenges **without their MVP**.
The Braves’ depth will be tested as they await Acuña’s return. For now, patience—not panic—is the mantra in Atlanta.
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