April 25, 2026
Adam Hackenberg loves every aspect of being a catcher.
“Obviously, defense is number one,” said Hackenberg. “Managing your pitching staff, getting to know your pitchers; I take pride in all of that stuff. There’s a lot more to it than people see with the game planning, the development with the starters week-to-week on their sides, just being able to see them carry that out into their next start is nice. I don’t know if I could play another position in baseball because I would be bored out of my mind. It’s fun being involved in every pitch.”
Getting to know his pitchers is exactly what Hackenberg is doing right now with Triple-A Buffalo.
“Obviously, coming in after the season started is kind of tough but I’m doing my homework every night,” explained Hackenberg. “I’m just trying to make that transition as seamless as possible. I really like what I see from the guys, it seems like a really good group, and I’m excited for the rest of the season.”
Hackenberg also enjoys managing a pitching staff, “It’s one of the fun but unnoticed parts of catching,” Hackenberg added. “Deep diving with these guys after their outings or starts, helping them make adjustments, and seeing it come to fruition.”
Catching the bullpens on his off days gives Hackenberg more opportunities to get to know his new teammates.
“It keeps me fresh on my end with the blocking, receiving, and all of that stuff,” said Hackenberg. “But it also allows me to see the shapes from guys, it keeps me adjusted to it for games. There’s no worse feeling than being behind the plate all tense and worried about pitchers doing stuff you’re not intending, so the more I see the pitching staff, the more it’ll help me in games.”
Currently 2-for-9 at the plate; Hackenberg talks about his plate approach.
“I have a bigger frame with power but usually what works best for me is keeping it simple,” stated Hackenberg. “My work varies – I’m trying to stay through the ball and stay inside the ball. In games, it’s swinging at good pitches and trusting my work.”
Hackenberg is thankful for his time in the Chicago White Sox system.
“I’m very thankful to the White Sox for drafting me, given me my first opportunity, and helping me grow as much as they did,” said Hackenberg. “This game is a business and sometimes when you don’t fit into a plan they have to move on from you. Thankfully the Blue Jays’ gave me another chance.”
Be sure to follow Adam Hackenberg, as he continues to love being a catcher in the Toronto Blue Jays’ organization.