A's 2019 projections: Expect Jurickson Profar to showcase versatility

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Editor's note: Over the next few weeks, NBC Sports California will be analyzing a different A's player each day to project their numbers for next season.

Jurickson Profar will have the unenviable task of replacing Jed Lowrie at second base next season in Oakland.

The 25-year-old came over from the Rangers last month in a three-team trade. A former top prospect, Profar had a breakout season in 2018, slashing .254/.335/.458 with 20 home runs and 77 RBI as well as 35 doubles and 10 stolen bases.

Profar struggled with injuries early in his big league career but showed his potential when healthy last season. Of course, Globe Life Park in Arlington is a much friendlier hitter's park than the Coliseum, but Profar did hit nine of his 20 homers on the road.

A switch-hitter, Profar produced more power from the left side of the plate, but he actually had a slightly higher OPS batting right-handed. He was especially productive in the second half of the season, hitting .270/.348/.498 with 11 home runs and 31 RBI in 61 games.

Defensively, Profar is extremely versatile. Last season, he spent time at first base, second base, third base, shortstop, and left field. He has a career fielding percentage of .975 as a second baseman, where he will spend the majority of his time next year.

Baseball Reference expects Profar's performance to drop off a bit in 2019. Their official projection has him hitting .248/.330/.414 with 14 home runs and 57 RBI.

[RELATED: Everything you need to know about Profar]

It wouldn't be surprising to see Profar get off to a slow start, as switching teams can often have that effect on a player. However, he is too talented in every facet of the game to struggle the entire season. We expect him to improve on last year's performance.

Projection: .271/.343/.471, 21 HR, 78 RBI, 36 doubles, 10 stolen bases

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