The Kansas City Royals are exploring the possibility of signing Jurickson Profar, a first-time All-Star with the San Diego Padres in 2024. The Royals are looking to improve their outfield for the 2025 season, and Profar could be the solution, though it may not be a straightforward move.
Kansas City’s outfield was a problem in 2024, and the front office is aware that upgrading this position is essential for the team’s future. With limited resources, the Royals will need to make shrewd decisions, and a signing like Profar might be the key. However, Profar’s career has been marked by inconsistency, making him a risky but potentially rewarding option.
Profar enjoyed a strong 2024 season, earning his first All-Star appearance, but his performance was an outlier compared to his overall career. He posted 4 WAR in 2024, a notable increase from his -1.6 WAR the previous year. His up-and-down career trajectory raises questions about which version of Profar a team would be getting. As Max Rieper of Royals Review pointed out, it’s uncertain whether Profar will continue at his 2024 level or revert to his previous struggles. This uncertainty is the key factor in whether he will secure a large contract, with projections for a three-year, $48 million deal.
For the Royals, Profar represents a significant gamble. While he could be a perfect fit for their needs and help elevate the team to contend in the AL Central, there is also the risk that he could regress, leaving the Royals stuck with a high-priced underperformer. Such a situation would limit the Royals’ ability to make further moves, and they would need to carefully evaluate whether the reward outweighs the risk. The key will be whether Profar’s market falls enough for Kansas City to afford him.
It’s expected that other teams, including the Padres, will also be in the mix for Profar, which could drive the price higher. However, if his market does dip below expectations, the Royals could seize the opportunity. They may need to outbid the Padres or other suitors to land him, but the potential reward could make the gamble worth it.
The Royals are hoping that Profar’s strong 2024 season wasn’t a fluke, and that he can provide the boost they need in the outfield. The coming weeks and months will reveal whether Kansas City will take the plunge and risk the money on Profar or look for another option. In any case, he represents an intriguing opportunity for a team that is looking to turn its fortunes around.
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