The Padres still have a glaring hole in left field with just one month to go before Spring Training. An intriguing option remains available in free agency—an old friend of the organization.
Currently, San Diego has no left fielder with MLB experience on their roster. FanGraphs projects Tirso Ornelas to fill the spot, but he has yet to play in a major league game. With multiple roster needs still unaddressed and pitchers and catchers reporting in three weeks, the clock is ticking.
Jurickson Profar, who had one of the most remarkable breakout seasons in a Padres uniform last year, remains unsigned. Once a top prospect turned journeyman, Profar finished 14th in NL MVP voting in 2024. Playing on a $1 million base salary last season, he exceeded expectations by hitting contract incentives. Now, understandably, he’s seeking a significant raise for 2025.
Reports indicate the Padres and Profar are in communication, but no deal is imminent, and other teams are likely in the mix. Free agent projections suggest Profar could command a multi-year deal worth about $15 million annually, a price that might be too steep for San Diego. However, both sides seem eager to reunite. Profar has expressed his love for playing in San Diego, where he’s had the two best seasons of his career by WAR, in 2022 and 2024.
Last season, Profar elevated his game to new heights. Aside from Jackson Merrill, no player contributed more by WAR for the Padres. The Curacao native led the team in runs scored, walks, on-base percentage, and OPS, with his 134 OPS+ ranking 11th in the National League. At 31 years old, he earned his first All-Star selection, becoming one of the oldest players in MLB history to receive that honor.
As Spring Training approaches, the Padres remain in desperate need of a left fielder. While late additions during camp are possible, time is running out. Given the Padres’ current payroll concerns, a three-year, $45 million deal for Profar seems unlikely. However, if he’s willing to take a discount to stay in a clubhouse he enjoys, a deal could be made. A two-year contract worth around $16 million might be a realistic compromise.
Even if the Padres manage to acquire another quality left fielder, Profar’s versatility could still make him a valuable asset. The bench and DH options currently look underwhelming, adding to the team’s need for his bat.
The Padres need Profar. Profar enjoys playing in San Diego. Whether as a starting left fielder, a DH, or a versatile lineup piece, his presence would significantly improve the roster. The decision now rests with Padres ownership and A.J. Preller to find the right price and make it happen.
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