It looks like the Atlanta Braves have finally made a splash this offseason—and it’s a pretty interesting one.
On Thursday, the team locked down outfielder Jurickson Profar with a three-year contract, marking their first major move as they look to rebound from last year’s playoff disappointment.
After the injury-riddled rollercoaster they endured in 2024, they’re hoping this signing brings some much-needed stability to the roster.
Jurickson Profar’s Career Year Raises Expectations
If you’ve been following Profar’s career, you know he’s had his ups and downs, but last season? He was on fire.
The 31-year-old put together his best year yet with the San Diego Padres, earning an All-Star nod and finishing with an impressive .280 average, 24 home runs, and 85 RBIs.
Not too shabby, right? He was a key piece for the Padres, especially after they shipped Juan Soto off to the Yankees in 2023.
And if that’s not enough, Profar even snagged his first career Silver Slugger and landed 14th in the National League MVP voting. Not bad for a guy who’s been bouncing around the league for over a decade.
Profar’s been around—Texas, Oakland, Colorado, and San Diego—but he’s always been a solid contributor. A career .245 hitter, he’s cracked the 20-homer mark three times, but last year’s 24 bombs were a personal best.
That’s the kind of production the Braves are hoping he can replicate in Atlanta.
What This Means for Jarred Kelenic
But here’s where things get tricky. This signing might spell trouble for Jarred Kelenic, the former top prospect the Braves picked up from the Mariners.
Kelenic had a so-so 2024, hitting .231 with 15 homers and 45 RBIs—not exactly jaw-dropping numbers. Add in his career .213 average over four seasons, and suddenly, the outfield picture starts to look a little crowded.
With Ronald Acuña Jr. recovering from an ACL tear, the Braves have some time to figure things out, but once he’s back? The lineup decisions get a lot tougher.
The Braves’ 40-man roster is currently packed with outfield options: Acuña, Profar, Michael Harris II, Bryan De La Cruz, Kelenic, and a few others vying for playing time.
Let’s not forget, the team probably isn’t too keen on having three left-handed hitters rotating in the outfield once Acuña returns.
The Braves Outfield Puzzle Moving Forward
So, what’s the takeaway? Well, it looks like Kelenic’s role is anything but secure. There’s a chance he and De La Cruz could form a platoon early in the season but in the long term?
Profar’s arrival throws a wrench into his future in Atlanta. Whether the Braves see Kelenic as part of their long-term plans—or potential trade bait—remains to be seen.
Braves fans can only hope Profar’s breakout season wasn’t just a fluke. If he can deliver, Atlanta’s outfield could be one of the deepest in the league. And if not? Well, let’s just say the Braves have some tough choices ahead.
