MLB rumors: Jurickson Profar visa, Cardinals reward a prospect, a veteran returns and more
By Josh Wilson
Jurickson Profar yet to join his big-league club due to visa issues
The other move the Rockies made to patch up their final roster might not be ready to join the team just yet.
Days ago, the Colorado Rockies signed Jurickson Profar to a contract, but the outfielder and infielder utilityman has yet to join his team because he’s awaiting a visa.
Profar was signed to a 1-year, $7.75 million deal just days ago. He’s a shoe-in to make the final roster in advance of Opening Day, it’s not certain yet whether he’ll actually be in the country and ready to play.
A major league staple since 2016, Profar is coming off a three-year stint with the Padres where he slashed .244/.333/.375 over three years. In his MLB career, Profar has slashed .238/.322/.386.
Profar’s inclusion in the listing of unsigned players this close to Opening Day was a bit of a surprise, but the fact that he’s lost a gear in his top speed has been pointed out as a reason why Profar is viewed by teams a bit differently.
Most teams interested in signing a player like Profar were probably looking for someone a tier above Profar in ta least one of his skill areas. But Profar’s average-to-good strengths are all over the board, which explains exactly why the Rockies picked him up. He can bring them a strong bat and someone who can play in both the outfield and infield, even if he doesn’t do any single strength at the highest level.
Profar played for the Netherlands in the World Baseball Classic this spring.