Mets Eyeing Jurickson Profar to Bolster Outfield Depth
The New York Mets have their eyes set on outfielder Jurickson Profar as they strategically maneuver to fortify their outfield’s depth in the upcoming season. This move comes as the Mets navigate the possibility of not re-signing their homegrown first baseman, Pete Alonso.
Interest in Profar
Throughout this offseason, the Mets have displayed keen interest in Jurickson Profar, a free agent outfielder, as revealed by MLB insider Robert Murray of FanSided. Profar’s potential addition to the team would bring a wealth of experience and enhance the depth of an already robust Mets outfield that boasts several talented options.
Current Outfield Landscape
The Mets’ outfield lineup currently includes standout players like Juan Soto, Tyrone Taylor, Jesse Winker, Starling Marte, Jose Siri, and Brandon Nimmo, along with Jose Azocar on the 40-man roster. The addition of Profar could lead to strategic roster adjustments, possibly involving trades before the commencement of the season.
Starling Marte, serving as a backup outfielder and a right-handed designated hitter (DH) option, plays a vital role in balancing the lefty-hitting Jesse Winker. Reports from Pat Ragazzo of Mets On SI suggest that the Mets have explored trading Marte during this offseason, showing a willingness to subsidize a portion of his salary to facilitate a potential move.
Profar’s Background
Jurickson Profar, a former top prospect, initiated his Major League Baseball (MLB) career with the Texas Rangers at the age of 19 in 2012. Over the years, Profar showcased his prowess, playing predominantly as a middle infielder during his tenure with the Rangers. Subsequently, he transitioned to the Oakland A’s in 2019, contributing significantly with 20 home runs in 139 games.
The San Diego Padres acquired Profar in 2020, where he maintained a solid performance for the following five seasons. His stint with the Padres was highlighted by a .257 batting average, .349 on-base percentage, and 51 home runs, demonstrating his versatility and reliability as a player. Profar’s 2023 season saw him with the Colorado Rockies, where he continued to exhibit his batting prowess with eight home runs in 111 games.
Recent Success and Prospective Move
In the 2024 season, Jurickson Profar delivered a career-best performance, achieving a .280 batting average, .380 on-base percentage, and .459 slugging percentage. His remarkable season was further validated by his first All-Star appearance and the prestigious Silver Slugger Award. Approaching his 32nd birthday, Profar stands as a valuable asset for the Mets, potentially signing a short-term deal to bolster the team’s roster.
In conclusion, the Mets’ pursuit of Jurickson Profar signifies a strategic move to enhance their outfield depth and solidify their position in the upcoming season. As negotiations unfold and the offseason progresses, the addition of Profar could prove instrumental in shaping the Mets’ roster and competitive edge in the league.
