The free-agent market is heating up and Jurickson Profar has become a name to watch. According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the Toronto Blue Jays and Houston Astros are among the teams expressing interest in the versatile utility player. Feinsand adds that the San Diego Padres, though they love Profar, may not see eye to eye financially to hash out a reunion.
Between Alex Bregman, Pete Alonso and Jurickson Profar, there are still some top free agents on the market
#MLBTonight takes a look at potential fits for the remaining targets. pic.twitter.com/sWa4vYB2fv
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) January 21, 2025
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Profar, known for his ability to play multiple positions and contribute both offensively and defensively, could provide a valuable boost to any roster as teams gear up for the upcoming season. Profar is coming off an All-Star campaign, batting .280/.380/.459 which stands as career-best marks.
Blue Jays, Astros Interested in Jurickson Profar
The Blue Jays have already signed an outfielder, inking Anthony Santander to a five-year deal. The Astros, meanwhile, could use an outfielder to help offset the departure of Kyle Tucker, who was traded to the Chicago Cubs in December.
MLB Network’s Jon Morosi also mentioned Profar as a possible target for the Blue Jays on Monday. Both Feinsand and Morosi believe Toronto has more money to use in free agency, considering what they were willing to pay for Juan Soto and Corbin Burnes before they signed elsewhere.
If Purickson does come to Toronto, he and Santander can alternate between left field and designated hitter with George Springer and Daulton Varsho set to claim the starting spots. It would allow the Blue Jays even more stacked groups around Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette and Andrés Giménez.
Houston’s outfield appears to be a weak spot following Kyle Tucker’s trade to the Chicago Cubs. The current options include Jake Meyer, Chas McCormick, Taylor Trammell and Mauricio Dubon. There’s additional depth from Kenedy Corona, Pedro Leon and Cooper Hummel. While an upgrade would be ideal, it’s uncertain if owner Jim Crane will commit to such a move. Crane has expressed openness to exceeding the luxury tax for a second consecutive season but has sent mixed signals.
The Astros offered Alex Bregman a reported six-year, $156 million contract, yet the Tucker trade suggests a more cautious approach, even with the signing of Christian Walker to a three-year, $60 million contract.
Adding Profar would provide a strong boost to either team’s roster. Profar offers versatility, experience and a reliable bat. As the Blue Jays and Astros explore their options, Profar’s skillset makes him an ideal fit for any team looking to improve their depth.
Main Photo: © Orlando Ramirez-Imagn Images
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