Jurickson Profar Starts Braves Tenure with Confidence and Gratitude
Jurickson Profar’s journey in baseball has always been marked by resilience and passion, and as he stepped onto the field for the Atlanta Braves on Opening Day, it was no different. Petco Park erupted as he walked up to bat, but this time, he wasn’t wearing a Padres uniform. Instead, he was leading off for the Braves, a team that had embraced him with open arms after negotiations with San Diego failed to materialize. With a hand on his heart and a tip of his helmet, Profar acknowledged the crowd before doing what he does best—delivering. His first at-bat resulted in a single to right field, setting the tone for his fresh start in Atlanta.
The Braves secured Profar on a three-year, $42 million contract in January after his impressive 2024 season, where he exceeded expectations with 24 home runs, 85 RBIs, and a .305/.394/.476 slash line in the first half. His performance earned him his first All-Star appearance in his 11-year career, solidifying his place as one of the most impactful players in the league. Padres shortstop Xander Bogaerts, a longtime friend and competitor, expressed his admiration, noting how special it was to see Profar thrive last season.
Despite his desire to return to San Diego, the financial constraints of the organization led to his departure. Profar openly shared his disappointment, saying he had been hopeful for an offer that never came. Padres president of baseball operations A.J. Preller, who has known Profar since scouting him as a teenager, acknowledged his contributions to the team and wished him success—just not against the Padres.
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Atlanta’s general manager Alex Anthopoulos made it clear that the Braves truly wanted Profar, making him a priority signing. For Profar, it was an easy decision to join a team he had admired since childhood, growing up watching fellow Curacao native Andruw Jones dominate in a Braves uniform. He embraced his new opportunity, believing it was the perfect fit for his competitive mindset.
Even in his first game against his former team, the camaraderie with ex-teammates remained strong. During batting practice, he shared warm embraces with Manny Machado, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Bogaerts, reinforcing the deep bonds he formed in San Diego. He admitted he still keeps in touch with many of them on a daily basis. While playing against them may feel different, it’s not unfamiliar territory. Having previously left the Padres for Colorado in 2023, he knows what it’s like to face old friends as opponents.
Profar’s energy and passion made him a fan favorite in San Diego, with memorable moments like his game-winning grand slam against the Nationals and his highlight-reel home run robbery of Mookie Betts in the NLDS. His fierce competitiveness and clutch performances left a lasting impact on the team and its culture. Padres outfielder Jackson Merrill joked about giving Profar some playful banter, but players understand that replacing his fire and tenacity won’t be easy.
Machado, reflecting on Profar’s time in San Diego, emphasized how integral he was to the team’s culture. He built something special, and though it was difficult to see him go, Machado expressed excitement for his friend’s new chapter. When asked if he felt any sadness over not returning, Profar simply smiled, looked around the Braves clubhouse, and said, “I think this team wouldn’t give me a chance to be sad. No. I’m not sad. I’m in a great place.”
For Profar, this is a new beginning—one filled with excitement, opportunity, and the chance to prove himself once again on the biggest stage. And judging by his start, he’s ready to make the most of it.
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