November 6, 2017
Photo credit: milb.com
Third baseman Jason Leblebijian made tremendous strides in both phases of his game with the Buffalo Bisons in 2017.
Finishing the season with a .258/.323/.405 slash line with 22 doubles, four triples, and 11 home runs in 427 at-bats; was great to see from the young infielder.
Leblebijian’s increased production came from the mechanical adjustments he made to his plate approach this season.
“I have made some mechanical adjustments to put me in better positions to drive the ball more consistently,” explained Leblebijian. “I think having the intent to do damage on my pitch has been the biggest change. Instead of just trying to make contact early, I’m more conscious and trying to drive the ball further, especially when I’m in a hitters count.”
Another component that has improved in Leblebijian’s game is his ability at the hot corner. After playing every infield position in the lower levels of the minors; the prospect feels more at home with third now.
“I feel I had a solid season defensively,” said Leblebijian. “This was my second year playing primarily third base and I’m continuing to feel more and more comfortable over there, along with playing anywhere else in the infield.”
Logging 564 2/3 innings at third is 2017; Leblebijian maintained a solid .976 fielding percentage, while taken part in 11 double plays and assisting on another 119 at the challenging position.
An opportunity in the majors won’t be far off for Leblebijian, if he keeps developing the way he did in Buffalo.
Focused on doing just that this off-season, Leblebijian has returned home to prepare for 2018.
“I think overall body strength is always my main key going into the off-season,” stated Leblebijian. “Being able to build my body, so it can get through the entire season is my top priority. Once I feel my body is where I want it to be, I will make a few mechanical adjustments that I hope will create more consistency at the plate.”
Toronto Blue Jays fans hope Jason Leblebijian can do just that and more this off-season.