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Blue Jays Have Gained Offensive Boost from Breakout Player

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Addison Barger has continued to remain hot at the plate for the Toronto Blue Jays. In his last seven games, he has batted .310 with 8 RBI and two home runs. Barger has transformed into one of the team’s bigger offensive threats since the start of this season.

From almost not making the roster to being a threat at the plate, Barger has broken out in his utility role with the Blue Jays.

Jun 19, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays right fielder Addison Barger (47) runs to home plate to score a run against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the eighth inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

Addison Barger Continues Making Offensive Impact for Blue Jays

Barger’s Power Potential

Barger has shown more power in his second season. This has been highlighted by a higher slugging percentage and more home runs. His raw power has always been evident, with impressive exit velocities and bat speed.

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Barger’s hard-hit rate ranks in the 96th percentile, and his bat speed is in the 93rd percentile.  However, his ability to translate that power into consistent production has improved a lot this season. A controlled and selective approach at the plate has helped him. 

Other Areas Barger Has Excelled This Season

Barger has already hit 17 home runs this season, putting him close to the team lead. He barely trails teammates Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and George Springer, who each have 18. Barger has hit behind Vladdy in the lineup, and it’s worked out well for the Blue Jays. 

Improved Slugging Percentage

His .514 slugging percentage leads all Blue Jays hitters with over 100 plate appearances, indicating a stronger ability to hit for extra bases. 

Controlled Aggression
Barger is an aggressive hitter who is making better swing decisions this season. This has provided him with more balls in play and fewer strikeouts. It has been compelling to see Barger remaining aggressive but laying off certain pitches that he would normally swing at. His strikeout rate has dropped from 26.7% in 2024 to 24.8% in 2025. If he can continue to work on his strikeout rate, this will showcase the adjustments he is continuing to make at the plate. 

Higher Exit Velocity

Barger’s exit velocity remains among the league’s best, demonstrating his raw power. This season, he’s sporting an average exit velocity of  93.1 mph, ranking in the 94th percentile. 
Better Plate Discipline
Barger is showing improved plate discipline. He’s been swinging at strikes more while laying off more pitches outside the zone. This has permitted him to get into better
hitting counts. 

Raw Power

He is consistently hitting the ball hard, with some of his hits reaching exit velocities of over 115 mph. 

Last Word on Barger

Last season, Barger’s raw power was not what you would call effective. It has converted into offensive production, whereas his struggles last season with plate discipline and swing decisions were apparent.
This year, he has shown a revamped offensive capability with a more refined approach at the plate. His four intentional walks in 2025 show he’s becoming a more feared hitter around the league. If he continues to hit the way he has, Barger will remain an offensive weapon who deserves to be in the lineup every day.

 

Main Photo Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

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