Name: Marcus KnechtPosition: Left Field
Acquired: 3rd round (2010)
Opening Day age: 21
Height/weight: 6’1”/200 lbs
Best/worst tool: Bat/fielding
Risk factor: Medium
ETA: 2014
Scouting Report
To say Knecht is anything beyond an offensive prospect at this point would be a lie, as his defensive skills aren’t particularly impressive. Both his fielding and arm strength are fringe-average, making left field his best-case defensive position, and first base or designated hitter his worst-case. Despite the defensive deficiencies, Knecht is a solid athlete. He has exceptional straight line speed but has yet to turn that into measureable statistics like triples and stolen bases. With some extra work on his baserunning, his speed tool could be better utilized. Knecht’s best tool is his fringe-plus bat. His swing is smooth and easy, and his plate discipline shows maturity beyond his years. This approach allows him to generate solid power without having a ton of loft on his swing. The power tool is presently average, but with his bat skills and muscular build (6’1”, 200 lbs) it has above average potential.
2011 Statistics and Analysis
439 AB, .273/.377/.474 (.851 OPS), 34 2B, 3 3B, 16 HR, 86 RBI, 4 SB, 67/124 BB/K
Prior to wearing down in the second half of the season, Knecht was playing like one of the best offensive prospects in Toronto’s system. At the end of July, Knecht was hitting .302/.391/.491 (.882). In August and early September his performance fell of dramatically, likely a fatigue issue. 2011 was Knecht’s first year in full season ball after playing only 61 games in 2010, many of which were at designated hitter. While the overall season line is still very impressive, his line from the first four months is an indication of how good his bat can be. The power is expressing itself mostly in doubles at this time, but as he continues to mature he could become more of a 20-25 home run guy.
Expected 2012 Assignment: High-A Dunedin
Future Outlook
Knecht’s path to affiliated ball was an unusual one that included losing nearly an entire developmental year because his college wouldn’t give him at-bats. He rebuilt his draft stock in 2010 has continued to improve every year since being selected by the Blue Jays. His first year in full season ball had some ups and downs, but he proved more than capable of handling minor league pitching. The next level will be a challenge, as he will be entering the always pitching-rich Florida State League after spending 2011 in a pitching-depleted Midwest League. With such a polished bat it would be shocking to see Knecht struggle too much as he continues to advance. A late season appearance with Double-A New Hampshire is not out of the question. Conservative estimates would have Knecht make his major league debut in mid-2014, but if the defense doesn’t hold him back he could be up earlier.
Perfect World Projection: Everyday LF who hits 2nd or 6th in the lineup.
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