FILE - Then-San Diego Padres third base coach Mike Shildt, right, speaks at a news conference next to San Francisco Giants first base coach Antoan Richardson before a baseball game in San Francisco on April 13, 2022. Shildt has been hired as manager of the San Diego Padres, returning to the dugout two years after he was suddenly fired by the St. Louis Cardinals following a third straight playoff appearance, a person with knowledge of the situation said Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File)
What Padres All-Star Outfielder Brings to Free Agent Market.
As the offseason unfolds, the San Diego Padres have some big decisions to make with key players entering free agency. One of their most notable free agents is fan-favorite outfielder Jurickson Profar. The 31-year-old switch-hitter enjoyed a breakout season in 2024. While he may not headline the market, Profar is an impactful player who could provide a solid boost to any team that signs him.
What Jurickson Profar Brings to the Free Agent Market.
In 2024, Profar posted a .280/.380/.459 slash line with 24 home runs, 85 RBI, and an .839 OPS. His 4.3 fWAR ranked third on the Padres, trailing only Dylan Cease and rookie sensation Jackson Merrill, and he placed seventh among all MLB outfielders. Notably, Profar excelled in high-leverage situations, delivering eight home runs, 43 RBI, and a stellar 1.147 OPS in clutch at-bats, according to Baseball Reference. This knack for clutch hitting makes him a valuable asset.
However, Profar’s performance dipped in the second half of the season. While he continued to provide timely hits and strong defense, his offensive production slowed after the All-Star break. His second-half numbers dropped to a .243 batting average, a .360 OBP, a .434 slugging percentage, and a .794 OPS. He also struggled in the postseason, hitting just .200 with one RBI over seven games. This slump could affect his market value, though his overall All-Star season should still attract interest. Some teams may be cautious, given Profar’s limited success outside San Diego, despite his strong 2024 performance.
Among the Top Outfielders Available
The Padres are the favorites to re-sign Profar. He’s been vocal about his desire to stay in San Diego, and the team values him as a clubhouse leader. However, if the two sides can’t reach an agreement, Profar would fit well with other teams in need of an outfielder.
Profar enters a free-agent class packed with notable outfielders, including Teoscar Hernández, Anthony Santander, Max Kepler, Tyler O’Neill, Joc Pederson, Alex Verdugo, and Jesse Winker. While Hernández and Santander are likely to land higher-value contracts due to their recent success and power potential, Profar could offer teams a solid, more affordable alternative. Furthermore, Profar did not receive a qualifying offer from the Padres, which is another factor that could make him more appealing to teams who miss out on the top names.
Potential Landing Spots
Spotrac projects Profar’s market value around $12.9 million per year, with a likely two-year deal, similar to contracts received by Mitch Haniger and Mark Canha. This makes Profar an enticing option for teams needing an outfielder but aiming for a more budget-friendly signing. Teams rumored to be in the market for outfield help include the Cleveland Guardians, St. Louis Cardinals, Philadelphia Phillies, Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, and Kansas City Royals.
Among these, the Phillies, Red Sox, and Royals stand out as potential fits. Philadelphia could look to move on from Brandon Marsh, opening an outfield spot. The Red Sox, who may lose Tyler O’Neill in free agency, have already been linked to Profar as a possible landing spot. Additionally, the Royals could benefit from Profar’s offensive boost as they continue building a young and promising roster.
Padres’ Interest in Retaining Profar
The most likely scenario remains a return to San Diego, especially with the team facing other losses, including Gold Glove shortstop Ha-Seong Kim, who recently opted out of his contract. Losing both Kim and Profar could significantly impact the clubhouse and the fan base. While replicating his stellar 2024 season may be challenging, Profar projects as a valuable contributor for the years ahead. The Padres, aiming to maintain their championship-contending momentum, view Profar’s presence on and off the field as a critical component in sustaining their 2024 success. As long as the price is right for GM A.J. Preller, Profar will likely continue to wear brown and gold for the next couple of years.
