Padres: 3 replacement options for an underperforming Tommy Pham

Padres have one of the game’s most versatile players in Jurickson Profar

Bringing Jurickson Profar back late this offseason was one of the most prudent moves made by San Diego’s front office. He’s coming off a season in which he hit a career-best .278/.343/.428 in the shortened campaign – but perhaps more importantly, he can spell pretty much anyone at any time as needed.

Already this season, he’s seen time at both corner outfield spots, first and second base. This is a definite area of strength for the Padres – in Profar, Ha-Seong Kim, Jorge Mateo and Jake Cronenworth, they have four guys capable of playing both the infield and outfield. Such depth is critical – as we’ve learned over the last two weeks with Tatis Jr. sidelined.

In Friday’s series opener, Tingler went with Profar in left over Pham – and the 28-year-old utility man rewarded his skipper’s faith with a clutch, game-tying double late. On the year, Profar is batting .292/.390/.375 – good for a 120 OPS+.

A switch-hitter capable of playing all over the diamond who’s swinging a hot bat? This guy has to be the top choice to start in left right now over Pham – if for nothing else, the obvious offensive upgrade this would be.