Atlanta Braves Secure Outfielder Elvis Profar With $42 Million, Three-Year Contract
Atlanta Braves Secure Outfielder Elvis Profar With $42 Million, Three-Year Contract
Overview
On March 13, 2023, the Atlanta Braves made a significant move by signing outfielder Elvis Profar to a three-year, $42 million contract. This signing is a clear indication of the Braves' commitment to bolstering their outfield and adding depth to their roster.
Profar, 30, is a versatile player who has spent time at various positions in the outfield, including center field, left field, and right field. He is known for his strong defensive abilities and has a career fielding percentage of .983. Offensively, Profar is a solid hitter with a career batting average of .258 and an on-base percentage of .335.
Key Details of the Contract
The contract between the Braves and Profar guarantees him $42 million over three years. The deal includes a $4 million signing bonus and salaries of $14 million in 2024, $16 million in 2025, and $18 million in 2026. Additionally, Profar has a player option for the 2027 season, which could potentially extend his contract to four years and $50 million.
Why Did the Braves Sign Profar?
The Braves' decision to sign Profar is a strategic move that addresses several needs on their team.
- Outfield Depth: Profar's signing provides the Braves with much-needed depth in their outfield. With Ronald Acuña Jr. and Michael Harris II locked in as the starting corner outfielders, Profar will likely fill a utility role, playing all three outfield positions and providing cover whenever necessary.
- Defensive Versatility: Profar's defensive versatility is a valuable asset to the Braves. His ability to play multiple positions allows manager Brian Snitker to be flexible with his lineup and defensive alignments.
- Offensive Contributions: While Profar is not a superstar hitter, he is a solid contributor who can provide the Braves with quality at-bats and occasional power. His career slash line of .258/.335/.420 indicates that he can get on base, hit for some power, and drive in runs.
Reactions to the Signing
The signing of Profar has garnered mixed reactions from baseball experts and fans alike.
- Positive Reactions: Many experts believe that Profar is a good fit for the Braves. They praise his defensive versatility, consistent hitting, and potential to provide occasional power. Fans are also excited about the addition of Profar, as he brings a veteran presence and winning experience to the team.
- Critical Reactions: Some critics argue that the Braves overpaid for Profar, especially considering his age and injury history. They believe that the Braves could have found a cheaper option with similar skills. Additionally, some fans are concerned that Profar may not be able to maintain his current level of play as he enters his thirties.
Conclusion
The Atlanta Braves' signing of Elvis Profar is a significant move that adds depth and versatility to their team. Profar's defensive abilities and offensive contributions make him a valuable asset to the Braves. While some experts question the value of the contract, the Braves believe that Profar will be a key player in their quest for another World Series title.
Only time will tell if the Braves made the right decision in signing Profar. However, one thing is for sure: the addition of Profar makes the Atlanta Braves a more formidable team in the National League East.