Why Jurickson Profar makes sense for New York Yankees

The New York Yankees are reportedly “keeping tabs” on Jurickson Profar, and while many may be lukewarm about the potential acquisition, it’s worth noting that he could be a solid defensive fit with an interesting upside at the plate.

Profar would almost certainly be expected to play left field if he were to sign with the Yanks, but it’s worth noting that he can play multiple positions if pressed. Over the course of his nine-year career, Profar has played each position in both the infield and outfield. In fact, the only positions he has not played are pitcher and catcher.

Having a player who can play multiple positions is an asset that Yankees fans saw first-hand last season with the emergence of Oswaldo Cabrera. Profar could provide an added layer of depth, as even if he’s made the everyday left fielder, there may be times when he’s needed to fill in at shortstop or another infield position.

Having both Profar and Cabrera on the roster would give the Pinstripes an air of versatility they do not currently boast (and his addition would allow Cabrera to excel in his patented “floater” role).

Does Jurickson Profar have power upside in Yankees uniform?

At the plate, Profar is not a slugger by any stretch, but he has a high upside. He cranked 20 home runs in both the 2018 and 2019 seasons as a member of the Texas Rangers.

While his power numbers dipped in 2020 and 2021, he was able to bounce back with a 15-home run year as a San Diego Padre last season.

Interestingly, Baseball Savant placed his “expected home run” mark at 20 if he were to play at Yankee Stadium. Profar’s sneaky home run ability could be an asset.

The 29-year old is also coming off an incredibly successful 2022 Postseason. In the NL Wild Card series against the New York Mets, Profar hit .311 while recording a home run and 4 RBI. He’s a career .281 hitter in Postseason play, and the Yankees need better October at-bats on the whole.

In last year’s ALCS, the Bombers hit for an abysmal .162 average, and could not overcome the Houston Astros. Profar is not a superstar, but he’s a veteran who has played in a plethora of big games.

Jurickson Profar may not be your first choice to be the everyday left fielder, but he could undoubtedly bring a unique skillset to the Bronx.