Braves Get Good News: Jurickson Profar (Bone Bruise) Expected to Be Ready for Opening Day

The Atlanta Braves received a big sigh of relief after learning that outfielder Jurickson Profar’s left wrist injury is nothing more than a bone bruise, allowing him to remain on track to start Opening Day.

Profar’s Injury Scare in Spring Training

The injury occurred on Saturday during a Spring Training matchup against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Profar was attempting a sliding catch in the fourth inning when he landed awkwardly and immediately clutched his left wrist in visible pain. The Braves’ training staff, led by head athletic trainer George Poulis, quickly attended to him before removing him from the game.

Jurickson Profar aims to fill leadoff spot until Ronald Acuña Jr. returns

Initial X-rays came back negative, providing hope that the injury wasn’t severe. However, the Braves sent Profar to Atlanta on Sunday for a CT scan to further evaluate any possible damage. Fortunately, the scan confirmed that there were no fractures or ligament damage—only a bone bruise, which is expected to heal with rest.

JURICKSON PROFAR INJURY: (WRIST INJURY) ATLANTA BRAVES VS. PITTSBURGH PIRATES | MLB | MARCH 8, 2025 - YouTube

Expected Recovery Timeline

While Profar may sit out for the rest of the week, team officials expect that he will return to the lineup for Opening Day when the Braves begin their season against the San Diego Padres on March 27. His health remains a key focus for Atlanta, especially given the significant role he is expected to play early in the season.

Braves Counting on Profar in Acuña’s Absence

The Braves signed Profar to a three-year, $42 million contract this offseason, bringing him in from the San Diego Padres to help stabilize their outfield following Ronald Acuña Jr.’s ACL tear. Acuña is currently targeting a return in May, meaning Profar will serve as the Braves’ starting left fielder and leadoff hitter in his absence.

Losing Profar before the season even begins would have been a major blow to the Braves’ lineup and depth. However, this positive medical update reassures the team and fans that he will be available when it matters most.

As Spring Training winds down, the Braves will continue monitoring Profar’s recovery while focusing on finalizing their Opening Day roster. For now, all signs point to Profar being ready to go when the season kicks off.