When life gives you a lemon, make lemonade; that’s the story for the majority of free agents outside the Scott Boras camp right now. Well, with the MLB clubs getting skeptical about offering long-term deals leaving so many free agents without contracts, fetching a high AAV in the short term has become a trend. And that’s exactly what Jurickson Profar has achieved with the Braves. His $14 million AAV with the Braves is not only a hard bargain but is also forcing famous sports agent Scott Boras to rethink his negotiation approach.

Recently, Boras has often made headlines due to his outrageous asking price for his clients. With general sentiment turning against his technique, the deal between Profar and the Braves would further create a grim situation for Boras’ clients. Consider two of Boras’ notable clients; Alex Bregman and Pete Alonso! However, why Jurickson Profar’s deal will create challenges for Boras to secure a contract for his clients?

Profar’s contract is a bargain

Jurickson Profar’s contract with the Braves is a bargain for both parties. The deal is a three-year contract worth $42 million; that’s $14 million AAV. Profar earns a handsome sum before re-entering free agency in a shorter period, while the Braves secure a good performer from last season at such an attractive price. So, why is this an attractive price? Before signing Profar, the Braves had their sights set on Anthony Santander, but he was signed by the Blue Jays for five years at a value of $92.5.

After missing out on Santander, the Braves ultimately got their hands on Profar for a much more competitive deal. Well, Santander is ahead of Profar in terms of power numbers, it is Profar who pays back with a higher batting average and better defense. Santander ended 2024 with 44 HRs and .235 BR while Profar is coming off with 24 HRs and .280 BR. So yes, he is quite comparable with Santander and the Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos has made a smart move here getting a better performer for less price. 

“$14M AAV. Incredible. THIS is why Alex waits.”, wrote MLB insider Beaneater Buzz over the microblogging site X. He refers to how this deal is what is missing from Alex Bregman’s stable, causing him to wait to find his new home. Alex Bregman along with his agent Boras has spelt an exorbitant price, something north of $200 million for the clubs. Hence, from the player’s perspective, Profar also made a smart move by going for a high AAV and a shorter period. Then what about the Boras’ clients with high asking prices?

Spelling dooms for Scott Boras’ clients 

Profar’s contract with the Braves made quite a stir in the baseball circuit and gave a reality check to Scott Boras’ approach. Two of the hottest free agents under Boras; Bregman and Alonso are asking for $200 million and $100 million respectively for a multi-year deal. Coincidentally, both remain unsigned, with Boras playing hardball. Bregman ended his 2024 season with 26 HRs and .260 BR while Alonso is coming off with 34 HRs and .240 BR. Are these asking prices justified based on their performances?

If Profar—who boasts a higher batting average than both Bregman and Alonso—signed for significantly less, how can Boras justify such steep demands for his clients, especially given their average numbers? Boras may need to pivot, opting for shorter-term, high-AAV deals instead of holding out for massive, long-term contracts. With the spring season just a few weeks away, Jurickson Profar’s contract is a reality check for Boras. 

The Braves’ contract with Jurickson Profar can be termed as one of the smartest moves this season. It’s now up to Boras to adjust his strategy and secure deals for his clients, rather than continuing to play hardball.

Do you think Profar’s contract with the Braves is a reality check for Boras? Share your thoughts below.