Jurickson Profar, the Atlanta Braves’ newest addition, wasted no time making an impact in his spring debut against the Pirates.
The first pitch he sees? A high heater from Mike Burrows. And what does he do? Turns on it and rips a rocket down the right-field line for a double. That’s how you make a first impression.
And it didn’t take long for that hit to pay off. A few batters later, Matt Olson stepped up and launched a shot to dead center, bringing Profar home and setting the tone for the day. Braves fans have a lot to be excited about if this is a preview of what’s to come.
Profar is the Braves New Leadoff Man
Profar found himself in the leadoff spot, right in front of Austin Riley, Matt Olson, and Marcell Ozuna—talk about a dangerous top-of-the-order. And let’s not forget, this isn’t just some random spring training experiment.
The Braves invested in Profar, signing him to a three-year, $42 million contract this offseason. They believe he can keep up the production that made him an All-Star last year.
And what a year it was. In 2023 with the Padres, Profar put together a career-best season, slashing .280/.380/.459 with 24 homers and 85 RBIs.
That kind of production was enough to earn him his first All-Star nod, and now the Braves are banking on him bringing that same energy to Atlanta.
Big Picture Plan in Atlanta’s Outfield
The big-picture plan? Once Ronald Acuña Jr. is back in action, the Braves envision an elite outfield trio with Acuña, Michael Harris II, and Profar.
If he can replicate his 2024 form, it will solve one of the lingering issues from last season: outfield depth and consistent production.
His presence takes some of the pressure off Jarred Kelenic, allowing the young outfielder to develop without the weight of expectation crushing him from day one.
One game doesn’t define a season, but if today was any indication, Profar is ready to roll.
