ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – Sometimes, a small adjustment makes all the difference.
Outfielder Jurickson Profar, the Braves’ latest acquisition, credits a swing modification for his standout 2024 season. He posted a .280/.380/.459 line with 24 home runs and 85 RBIs, earning his first All-Star selection and Silver Slugger award.
Profar made the change after taking advice from former major leaguer Fernando Tatis and working with current Padres outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr. during the previous offseason. He opened his stance and raised his leg higher at the start of his swing, which led to significant improvement. His success earned him a three-year, $42 million contract, the largest of his career.
Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos expressed confidence in Profar’s continued performance, a sentiment Profar appreciated.
“They showed a lot of confidence in me,” Profar said.
As the expected starting left fielder for the Braves, Profar is set to bring stability to the outfield. With former MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. out until at least May, the Braves are counting on Profar and Michael Harris II to cover two of the three outfield positions.
Although Profar began his career as a middle infielder, he has spent most of the last five years in the outfield, primarily in left.
“I like it out there,” Profar said. “(The Braves) have a great setup for me to improve in the outfield.”
Profar also spoke about the Braves’ strong ties to his native Curaçao, recalling his childhood memories of watching the team. Braves legend Andruw Jones may not have been the first Curaçao native to play in the majors, but he was the catalyst for the connection between the Braves and the island nation.
“[The Braves] were the first team I started following because of Andruw Jones,” Profar said. “Every Wednesday at 7 o’clock, I was in front of a TV to watch Andruw Jones and the Braves… Curaçao is Braves country. Everyone is a Braves fan.”
Profar will join 17 other Curaçao natives who have played in the major leagues, including current Braves second baseman Ozzie Albies and former Braves closer Kenley Jansen. He will now become the seventh Curaçaoan to suit up for the Braves.
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