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Jurickson Profar Makes His Return to San Diego

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Abbie Clavijo | Last updated Mar 25, 2025 2:50 PM ET

Jurickson Profar was a key athlete in the San Diego Padres’ batting lineup in the 2024 season. In the playoffs he hit a career-high 24 home runs to top off his career-best season. With the Padres in 2024 Profar also won the Silver Slugger award.

At the end of the 2024 season Profar entered free agency. The Atlanta Braves, looking to strategically fill the gaping hole in their lineup left by Ronald Acuña Jr. 's ACL injury immediately took interest in him. On Jan 23 the Braves’ need was met when Profar signed a three year $42 million deal to come to Atlanta.

Though Acuña will likely return to right field when he is fully recovered, Profar has proven essential to not only the Braves’ in the outfield but in their batting lineup as well.

This Spring, despite a wrist injury scare in early March Profar has stepped into his role well. On March 24 Profar hit leadoff for the Braves in their exhibition matchup against the Chicago Cubs. Profar drew one walk, made one hit and had one run.

His experience and talent not only shown last season but this Spring as well make him an ideal candidate for the leadoff spot in the Braves’ batting lineup on Opening Day.

In this spot Profar has the potential to make a storybook return to San Diego. On Opening Day the Braves will travel to San Diego to kick off their season with a series against the Padres. Profar will no longer be the leadoff hitter of the hometeam, but the leadoff hitter and veteran leader of the away team’s batting lineup.

He will stand on home plate facing his former teammate Michael King. King has been performing well this Spring, dishing out four Ks in his last five innings pitched. However, playing against former teammates and being familiar with how they play always has its advantages.

Profar will also have the opportunity to defend against his former teammates in right field as well. He knows the field, and he knows some of the batting lineup. Will this give him the upper hand?

The Braves have worked hard this Spring to develop a strong offensive team and pitching staff as well. Healthy and with about 15 Spring Training appearances under his belt Profar is sure to make some noise in his return to San Diego on March 27.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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