Braves’ Profar signing: The deal and what’s next?

The Atlanta Braves have made a significant move in the offseason by signing outfielder Jurickson Profar to a three-year, $42M contract. Profar, who was praised by GM Alex Anthopoulos as the “second-best bat on the market, ” will take over in left field. With a strong track record in San Diego last season, where he played 158 games with a . 280 batting average, he brings both defensive prowess and offensive power to the Braves. One percent of Profar’s $12M salary in 2025, and $15M in both 2026 and 2027, will be donated to the Atlanta Braves Foundation. This move underscores the team’s commitment to community service. Meanwhile, pitcher Spencer Strider, although not on the Opening Day roster, has been training diligently, completing four bullpen sessions during the winter. His normal spring training routine suggests he’s on track for a productive season. In other baseball news, the Toronto Blue Jays signed outfielder Anthony Santander for $92. 5M, with a bulk of $61. 75M deferred. MLB has also introduced two minor rule changes ahead of the 2025 season. The New York Mets finalized a two-year, $22M deal with former Braves player A. J. Minter. Additionally, the New York Yankees claimed two right-handed pitchers, including Allan Winans, who the Braves recently assigned for transfer. The LA Dodgers sealed a four-year, $72M contract with left-hander Tanner Scott. Veteran pitcher Clayton Kershaw is also contemplating a future with the LA team.