The search for the Boston Red Sox’s next right-handed power hitter continues, with fans frequently suggesting names like Alex Bregman and Pete Alonso. However, the team’s struggle against left-handed pitchers may lead them to reconsider whether the answer lies with a right-handed batter or a switch-hitter. One intriguing option is Jurickson Profar, who could turn out to be a valuable acquisition if he can replicate his All-Star performance from 2024. Profar posted an impressive .839 OPS, a 134 OPS+, and 3.6 bWAR while playing for the San Diego Padres that season.
Drew VonScio of Newsweek has even named Profar as a potential top target for the Red Sox this offseason, projecting his market value at $12.9 million, with a likely two-year contract worth $25.8 million. While the risk with Profar is clear—given his modest past performances with teams like the Colorado Rockies and his struggles prior to joining the Padres—there’s still potential for a great return if his 2024 form can be sustained. VonScio suggests that a team might even consider offering Profar a three-year deal if they are willing to be aggressive in negotiations.
Profar’s journey has been one of ups and downs, including a notably low salary of just $1 million in 2023 after a failed free-agent market. Despite this, his successful stint with the Padres has raised questions about his true value. Having struggled earlier in his career, with a .709 OPS and a .680 OPS in his 2023 season with the Rockies, Profar will be seeking a significant payday as he enters his age-32 season. This makes the Red Sox wary of a potential overpay for a player with inconsistent prior production.
However, the Padres are facing financial uncertainty and may not be willing to engage in a bidding war to retain Profar, which could open the door for Boston to strike a deal. While Profar represents a high-risk, high-reward opportunity, the Red Sox may see him as the kind of player they need to enhance their chances of competing for a championship. Whether this gamble will pay off remains to be seen, but it could be the move that helps propel Boston back into contender status.
