The Atlanta Braves have had an eventful offseason. Key starting pitchers Max Fried and Charlie Morton signed with other teams, and reliable left-handed reliever A.J. Minter moved to division rival New York Mets. After weeks of silence, Braves general manager Alex Anthopoulos made a splash by signing outfielder Jurickson Profar to a three-year, $42 million deal. This move strengthens the Braves’ outfield depth while still leaving room for further roster improvements, particularly in the starting rotation or bullpen.
Profar’s Versatility and Potential Role
Jurickson Profar, coming off a career-best season with the San Diego Padres, is expected to be an everyday player for the Braves, at least until Ronald Acuña Jr. is fully recovered and back in the lineup. Profar, a switch-hitter, posted a remarkable .280/.380/.459 slash line in 2024, with 24
home runs, 85 RBIs and 94 runs scored. He was also exceptional in terms of advanced stats, ranking in the 90th percentile for batting run value, chase percentage, and whiff percentage. His solid plate discipline (11.4% walk rate, 15.1% strikeout rate) and power numbers make him an exciting addition to an already potent lineup featuring stars like Austin Riley, Matt Olson and Ozzie Albies.
However, Profar’s role might evolve once Acuña is back. The current projected outfield for Opening Day would be Michael Harris II, Jarred Kelenic, and Profar, but Acuña would replace Kelenic once healthy. Profar’s versatility could also play a key role in reshaping the infield. He’s capable of playing second base and shortstop, a factor that could lead to a possible shift to shortstop for Profar, especially with Orlando Arcia’s inconsistent performance in recent seasons.
This flexibility gives the Braves options, including the potential to move Arcia in a trade to further bolster their outfield or other areas.
Profar’s Defensive and Offensive Impact
Defensively, Profar is primarily an outfielder now, with most of his career spent in left field. His defensive metrics have been below average, including a -8 grade from Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) and -6 from Outs Above Average (OAA) in 2024. However, his offensive production more than makes up for his defensive shortcomings, as his 4.3 WAR and strong overall numbers
were key to the Padres’ success. While his defensive numbers may not be stellar, the Braves will likely value his bat over his glove, particularly in a lineup already packed with talent.
Why Profar Makes Sense for the Braves
The Braves needed outfield depth this offseason after Acuña’s injury woes in 2024 and the departures of players like Jorge Soler and Ramón Laureano. The Braves also moved on from Jarred Kelenic, whose struggles didn’t match the expectations set when he was acquired. Profar’s signing provides stability and depth, while Acuña’s eventual return will solidify the outfield further.
In addition to his offensive potential, Profar’s clubhouse presence and leadership will be valuable assets for a team that expects to contend in the National League. Profar’s decision to join the Braves over a potential return to San Diego was influenced by the Braves’ aggressive pursuit and the confidence shown in him by Alex Anthopoulos.
“He gave me a lot of confidence to come to a team and perform,” Profar said of the Braves general manager, highlighting the strong relationship between the two.
What’s Next for the Braves?
With the addition of Profar, the Braves have bolstered their roster but are still likely to make additional moves, particularly to improve the starting rotation and bullpen. The Braves have several young pitchers, like Bryce Elder and Ian Anderson, who could step up to round out the rotation, but the front office might target more pitching options as the season progresses. Furthermore, the Braves may look to make another move for an outfielder if the opportunity arises, though it remains to be seen if any further trades will happen before Opening Day.
