MLB trade rumors: Atlanta Braves could land $7.6 million San Diego Padres starting pitcher to bolster rotation and improve championship odds

The Atlanta Braves are dealing with a major roster issue after Jurickson Profar received a 162-game suspension in early March 2026 for a second PED violation. The punishment removes him from the entire 2026 season and the postseason.The suspension also changes Atlanta’s payroll situation. Profar was due to earn $15 million in 2026 as part of the three-year, $42 million contract he signed before the 2025 season. With that salary now off the books, the Braves have more flexibility. Some reports have linked the team to free-agent left-handed pitcher Nestor Cortes as a possible low-cost addition.

Jurickson Profar suspension creates roster and payroll changes

Jurickson Profar, 33, had been expected to be part of Atlanta Braves’ lineup this season.

His suspension for using exogenous testosterone is his second PED offense and carries the league’s maximum 162-game penalty.The Braves will not pay his $15 million salary for 2026, which creates financial space. At the same time, it leaves questions in the lineup. The outfield situation is still uncertain while Ronald Acuña Jr. continues to work his way back to full form, and the team does not have a clear designated hitter option.

Atlanta general manager Alex Anthopoulos may now look for affordable pitching or depth options on the market. That search has led to speculation about Cortes.

Nestor Cortes’ recent career and injury timeline

Nestor Cortes, who turns 31 during the 2026 season, is a free agent after a difficult 2025 year. He previously established himself as a starter with the New York Yankees before being traded to the Milwaukee Brewers in 2025. Later that season he was dealt again to the San Diego Padres.Injuries limited him to 34.1 innings in 2025, and he finished the year with a 6.29 ERA. He later underwent arm tendon surgery and is not expected to return until around the All-Star break or later.

Because of the injury, contract projections for Cortes are lower than they might have been in previous years. Estimates place him around a two-year deal worth about $30 million, with annual salaries between $13 million and $15 million.If healthy later in the season, Cortes could work as a starter or provide multi-inning relief. He has built his career on control and deception rather than velocity and owns a career strikeout rate of 24.6 percent.

How a potential Atlanta Braves signing could work

Signing Nestor Cortes would not involve a trade. He became an unrestricted free agent after earning $7.6 million through arbitration in 2025.Atlanta could offer a one- or two-year contract with incentives tied to innings or starts.

A deal could also include deferred money or a heavier salary in 2027, when he is expected to be fully healthy.The $15 million freed from Profar’s suspension could cover much of that cost. No prospects would need to be moved, and the contract could include flexibility depending on how his recovery progresses.

Nestor Cortes Key Stats (2022–2025)

Cortes was at his best in 2022 and 2024, when he provided steady innings and strong run prevention. His control and pitch variety helped him produce effective seasons without relying on high velocity.

Possible benefits for Atlanta Braves

If Atlanta Braves sign Cortes, the team would add left-handed pitching depth at a manageable cost. His career walk rate of 7.9 percent shows consistent control, and he has experience working both as a starter and in relief.His return around midseason could help the Braves if they need innings during the second half. Cortes has also posted strikeout rates above 25 percent during some of his stronger seasons.For Cortes, joining a contender would provide stability while he works back from injury.

His career earnings are around $19 million, so a guaranteed deal could provide security while giving him a chance to rebuild his value.

Pros and cons of the move

A possible advantage is the chance to sign a pitcher who has previously performed at a high level at a reduced price. His versatility also gives the team more options with its pitching staff.The risk is tied to health. Cortes would miss the early part of the season because of surgery, and his 2025 numbers showed clear struggles, including 13 home runs allowed in 34.1 innings.

Durability has also been a concern during parts of his career.

Jurickson Profar suspension demographics

Also read: MLB trade rumors: Boston Red Sox predicted to bag $13.25 million Kansas City Royals All-Star to improve squad; Jarren Duran key trade asset?Atlanta now has both a roster gap and additional payroll space because of Profar’s suspension. If the team chooses to pursue Cortes, it would be a low-risk attempt to add pitching depth without giving up players or committing to a long contract.