Regardless of the doubts brought on by why Profar was absent, there is a needed reality check: It can't get much worse

The Atlanta Braves are designating veteran outfielder Alex Verdugo for assignment, according to The Athletic. Verdugo's departure clears space for fellow outfielder Jurickson Profar, who will return against the Los Angeles Angels on Wednesday ( GameTracker) after serving a PED suspension.

Verdugo has hit .203 in his last 42 games. Profar will return from an 80-game suspension handed down four days into the season.