Why MLB teams are hesitant to embrace Jurickson Profar’s unbelievable 2024 comeback

The 2024 season was a comeback one for Jurickson Profar as the former top prospect was an All-Star for the first time in his career. However, MLB teams have been surprisingly hesitant to show interest in signing the free agent during the offseason. The reluctance raises questions about why a player with such a strong comeback is not attracting more attention from franchises.

Profar's 2024 performance with the San Diego Padres showed a big change from previous years. After struggling to find consistent playing time and production in prior seasons, he emerged as one of the NL's more reliable hitters with his career-high 24 home runs.

Profar, whose MLB debut was in September 2012 with the Texas Rangers, hit .280, with an OPS nearing .850, an on-base percentage of .380 and a slugging percentage of .459. He had 85 RBIs while stealing 10 bases.

In particular, Profar's exit velocity of 91.1 mph and hard-hit percentage of 44.4% show that he was not just lucky, he was hitting the ball with proper technique that led to precision.

Even after his successful season, several factors contribute to teams' hesitance in going after Profar. First is the current landscape of free agency. With a lot of outfielders available, many of whom have established themselves as everyday players, teams may prioritize other options that fit their specific needs better.

Other than that, Profar's past inconsistency can be one reason for teams to not sign him. Teams often prefer players with a more consistent track record, especially when making huge financial commitments.

Another important factor influencing teams' decisions is Profar's positional flexibility. While he has experience playing multiple positions, including outfield and infield roles, his defensive skills have not always been great. In recent years, he struggled defensively at second base and third base, leading to concerns about whether he can be relied upon as an everyday player at those positions.

Jurickson Profar's contract expectations

Jurickson Profar - Image via Getty

Jurickson Profar is coming off a career-best season, hitting .280/.380/.459 while playing a one-year deal worth one million dollars with the San Diego Padres.

According to MLB Trade Rumors, as per ESPN's Jeff Passan, Profar is looking for a deal in the three-year-plus range. It will be interesting to see where Profar lands as the offseason goes on.