Three breakout players so far this season for the Blue Jays who have provided impact are Alejandro Kirk, Ernie Clement, and Addison Barger. All three this season have provided consistency for the Blue Jays. For example, Kirk was a full-time catcher who played like an All-Star. Additionally, Clement is becoming an everyday player.
He is shaping out to set single-season milestones with doubles. In addition, Barger has dominated with his power-hitting abilities, he has seven home runs this season for the Blue Jays. He also demonstrates impactful, hard-hitting skills, which have permitted him to boost his power this season. His hard-hit rate and bat speed are both impressive this season. Ranking in the 89th percentile with 51.3 % and a bat speed of 75.7 %, ranks in the 94th percentile.
Three Blue Jays Players Possessing a Breakout Season
Alejandro Kirk
Kirk has made adjustments by engaging with his back leg more. Overall, it has allowed him to hit more for power while also lifting the ball. His solid strikeout rate of 1o.1 % this season ranks in the 97th percentile and has been invigorating for the 2022 All-Star.
His hard-hit rate of 55.8 % ranks in the 97th percentile. Kirk’s ability to hit for contact makes him a standout catcher for the Blue Jays this season. His offensive impact has made him a bounce-back and breakout player this season. This is following a contract extension with the team this season, which is without question deserving of. Despite the Blue Jays losing Danny Jansen last season, Kirk’s increased role with the team has allowed him to rediscover his offensive dominance.
Addison Barger
Barger’s return to his natural swing is something he has worked on with hitting coach David Popkins. A natural stance has provided him with a more effective and dominant form at the plate. His production rate has been illustrated through his hitting more for power.
Barger’s offensive impact and improved pitch selection and his 75.7 mph bat speed which ranks in the 94th percentile have boosted his performance at the plate. His power potential has without question been unlocked. He recorded a stretch this season where he hit nine straight balls with an average exit velocity above 98 mph.
Ernie Clement
Clement entered June 11 slashing .368/.422/.667 with a 205 wRC+ in 65 plate appearances vs left-handed pitchers this season. He went 3-for-3 with this 377-foot bomb against Matthew Liberatore. Clement has also significant strides in his hitting approach. An improved strikeout rate and hitting more for contact. His ability to consistently get on base and put balls in play, even in two-strike counts, has made him a valuable asset at the plate.>
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