While the New York Yankees and Chicago Cubs are locked in a bidding battle for All-Star Houston Astros outfielder Kyle Tucker, there is an interesting fallback option for the Yankees in left field.
They reportedly have interest in Jurickson Profar, MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch reported.
Once considered the top prospect in the game Profar’s career has largely been disappointing. Now 31, however, Profar is coming off a career year in which he slashed .280/.380/.459 with 24 HR, 85 RBI, and 4.3 fWAR. The switch-hitting Profar earned his first All-Star nod in 2024 with the San Diego Padres.
Profar has shown his maturity as a hitter. Last year, he ranked in the 89th percentile in walk rate, the 88th percentile in strikeout rate, and the 90th percentile in both chase and whiff rate.
Many believe Profar blossomed in San Diego because he did not have to be“the guy.” He just played his role on a team that featured Manny Machado and Fransisco Tatis, Jr. and in 2023 also included Juan Soto.
The Yankees would provide the same ability for Jurickson to just stick to his role behind Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, and their other stars. Profar is projected to command a deal in the three-year, $30 million range.
