Aug 25, 2024; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres left fielder Jurickson Profar (10) celebrates after hitting a two-run home run against the New York Mets during the eighth inning at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports
Braves Bet Big on Jurickson Profar After Career-Best 2024 Season!
Braves Sign Jurickson Profar to 3-Year, $42M Deal: A High-Risk, High-Reward Bet
In a stunning turnaround, Jurickson Profar went from being one of MLB’s worst full-time players in 2023 to one of its best in 2024. With a slash line of .280/.380/.459 and a 139 wRC+ while playing half his games at pitcher-friendly Petco Park, Profar posted a 4.3 WAR season. Despite subpar baserunning (-0.8 BsR) and defense (-8 DRS, -6 FRV), his stellar offense caught the attention of the Atlanta Braves.
On Thursday, Atlanta signed the outfielder to a three-year, $42 million deal, banking on his ability to sustain his 2024 performance. While projections for Profar vary widely—his Steamer forecast for 2025 predicts 18 home runs, a 113 wRC+, and 1.9 WAR—his deal reflects the going rate for corner outfielders with All-Star potential.
Profar’s fit in Atlanta goes beyond the stats. A Curaçao native, he grew up rooting for the Braves, a sentiment echoed by many Curaçaoan players inspired by Braves legend Andruw Jones. The Braves have a storied history with players from Curaçao, and Profar joins a roster that already includes Ozzie Albies, another Curaçaoan star.
From the team’s perspective, adding Profar addresses a glaring need in the outfield. Following the trade of Jorge Soler and uncertainties surrounding Ronald Acuña Jr.’s return, Profar fills a critical gap in Atlanta’s lineup. His defensive and offensive profile makes him a clear upgrade over other options like Bryan De La Cruz and Jarred Kelenic.
The $42 million question remains: Can Profar sustain his All-Star-level performance, or will he regress to his pre-2024 numbers? Over his career, he has been inconsistent, with a wRC+ below 100 in most seasons. However, his 2024 breakout, powered by improved hard-hit rates and plate discipline, suggests a higher ceiling than previously seen.
If Profar delivers anything close to his 2024 production, this deal could be a steal for Atlanta. But even a return to his 2018, 2020, or 2022 form would make this contract a worthwhile investment for a team with postseason aspirations.
Profar’s 2025 Steamer Projections:
| PA | HR | BB% | K% | wRC+ | WAR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 662 | 18 | 11.0% | 16.5% | 113 | 1.9 |
With his remarkable turnaround and a team that believes in his potential, Profar’s story in Atlanta is just beginning. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see if he can maintain his newfound consistency and help the Braves chase another championship.
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