• Full name Joshua Sean Leyland
  • Born 07/06/1991 in San Dimas, CA
  • Profile Ht.: 6'1" / Wt.: 220 / Bats: L / Throws: R
  • School San Dimas
  • Drafted in the 16th round (483rd overall) by the Oakland Athletics in 2009.
    View Draft Report
    Surefire high school hitters are a scare commodity in Southern California and throughout the 2009 draft class, and that helps Leyland stand out. A 6-foot-3, 225-pounder, he may be the most mature and fundamentally sound high school hitter in the state. In an early season game, one coach told his team of Leyland: "These guys have an Adam Dunn over there." Two homers later the same coach lamented, "I shouldn't have pitched to him." Leyland has average to above-average raw power, which has been on display at showcases nationwide. He has done more in those events than hammer the ball in BP, also showing his power in game action. Few high schoolers are as advanced fundamentally as Leyland. His stance is well balanced, and his swing is short to the ball and long afterward. Leyland does not run well, so first base or catcher will be his future defensive home. While not a polished catcher, his hands work decently at that spot. His arm is acceptable, though he'll need work on his catch and throw technique. Whatever position he plays, Leyland's bat will always be his trump card. Few high school hitters can match his blend of raw power and technical precision.

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