IBL's Toronto Maple Leafs bring back Knecht

The Intercounty Baseball League’s Toronto Maple Leafs have signed slugger Marcus Knecht (Toronto, Ont.). Photo: Caps Sports Photography

April 14, 2024

Official Toronto Maple Leafs News Release

TORONTO - The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed outfielder Marcus Knecht (Toronto, Ont).

Knecht, who returns after sitting out the 2023 season, will be a welcome addition to the middle of the Leafs’ lineup.

Knecht was drafted in the 23rd round by the Milwaukee Brewers in 2008 but opted to go to college. After years with Oklahoma State and Connors State, Knecht was selected in the third round of the 2010 MLB draft by the Toronto Blue Jays. He would spend the next six seasons in the Blue Jays’ organization, rising as high as double-A. In 642 minor league games, Knecht had 54 homeruns and 325 RBIs.

He has also represented Canada numerous times in international competitions, including winning gold at the 2011 Pan Am Games.

In 2022, he played only nine regular games and hit .343 (12-for-35) before exploding in the playoffs, batting .446 (25-56) with six home runs and 20 RBIs in 13 games. In his IBL career, he has hit .309 with 32 home runs and 111 RBIs and has 22 stolen bases.

"Sometimes sitting out a year is a good re-set and I think we are in for a big year from Marcus,” said Leafs GM Jeff Lounsbury. “He is respected and brings a wealth of experience and skills to the field. His contributions will also be felt in the clubhouse as well. To have a right handed bat in the middle of our tough lefty lineup is also key."