September 22, 2019
Photo credit: Miguel Arcaute / Lansing Lugnuts
First baseman Jake Brodt has made some slight adjustments to his game since turning pro in 2018. And those adjustments are paying off for Brodt as the prospect had a memorable season with low-A Lansing in 2019.
Brodt’s memorable year included: an all-star nod, and a chance to take part in the Midwest League’s Home Run Derby in June.
His all-star nod came after the prospect recorded 11 doubles, two triples, and eight home runs in the first half. In that time, Brodt had a .265 batting average, and an OPS of .831.
“It meant a lot when I heard my name called for the all-star team,” said Brodt. “There’s a lot of great players in the Midwest League, so it shows me that I’m on the right track. Overall it was a really fun week of baseball, activities, and getting to know the other guys in the league.”
And the rest of the league got to know Brodt, as the prospect went 2-for-3 with two runs scored in the game.
But before the actual game took place, Brodt joined some of the Midwest League’s best power hitters in the home run derby.
“It was a very unique experience for me,” stated Brodt. “For my first home run derby to be in pro ball against some of the leagues biggest hitters was special. There was an aspect of nervousness and excitement to it which I actually enjoyed. I’ll be able to look back at it later in life and be glad I did it.”
Finishing his year with a .234/.325/.400 line in 355 at-bats split between low-A and double-A; Brodt’s production went down a little in the second half, as he added three doubles, a triple, and five home runs to his final statistics for 2019.
Constantly working on his approach since turning pro, Brodt admits that he has made improvements at the plate – but still has room to grow as a hitter.
“I’ve really tried limiting my movement mechanically,” explained Brodt. “I’ve spread out my stance a little more. That way I can focus on pitch selection more, so I can time a big leg kick. Also I’ve been working on an approach where I know the pitchers tendencies in each account. I’m not where I want to be yet, but I’m happy with the strides I’ve made this year.”
Also making strides in his defensive game; Brodt maintianed a .998 fielding percentage at first base in 799 2/3 innings between the two levels.
Known as a guy who takes great pride in his defensive ability, Brodt talks about the differences between playing the position in pro ball compared to the college game.
“The biggest difference between playing first base in college and pro ball is staying fine-tuned and fresh on defense,” said Brodt. “There’s more work done before the pitch at this level. There’s more shifts in pro ball, and understanding the kind of hitter at the plate.”
Be sure to follow Jake Brodt next season, as he looks to build off his 2019 campaign.