Thu Jan 23 21:50:00 UTC 2025: **Braves Sign Jurickson Profar to Three-Year, $42 Million Deal**
ATLANTA, GA – The Atlanta Braves have agreed to a three-year, $42 million contract with free agent outfielder Jurickson Profar, multiple sources reported Tuesday. The deal, which includes annual salaries of $12 million, $15 million, and $15 million, will require the Braves to make a corresponding roster move to accommodate the 32-year-old outfielder.
Profar, formerly of the San Diego Padres, enjoyed a career year in 2024, posting career highs in home runs (24), batting average (.280), on-base percentage (.380), and slugging percentage (.459). His 139 wRC+ ranked among the top 15 qualified hitters in the league. While his performance has been inconsistent throughout his career, impressive underlying metrics like his hard-hit rate and exit velocity suggest the potential for sustained success.
Defensively, Profar primarily plays left field, where his performance has been considered below average. However, his offensive contributions and ten stolen bases resulted in a 4.3 WAR, according to FanGraphs.
The signing represents a significant addition for the Braves, who are looking to build on their playoff run. The team will need to address the roster implications of this signing before the deal becomes official. The Padres, meanwhile, are left with a gap in their outfield after letting Profar go, prompting discussion among fans and analysts regarding the team’s offseason strategy and financial constraints.
First Piper 