When we last looked in on Conor Jackson, he had just begun playing winter league baseball in the Dominican Republic.
With the season now in full swing in Santo Domingo, I thought it might be interesting to see how things are going for the lost Diamondback.
Playing for the Leones del Escogido, Jackson has now appeared in 23 games.
When we first looked in, Jackson had started out on a torrid pace, feasting on Latin American pitching. Having gone through Valley Fever, the biggest question was whether Jackson would have the stamina to maintain his energy level for an extended time.
Jackson has now appeared in 23 games accumulating 73 at-bats. In those at-bats, he has gotten 31 hits, the most on the team.
Jackson has six doubles and two home runs. He has scored 16 runs and also has 16 RBIs in that time.
Jackson continues to exhibit good plate discipline with an on-base percentage of .561.
Besides having good at-bats, Jackson has also found success on the base paths, stealing nine bases in 23 games. He has not been known for his speed, so perhaps he is gaining an edge that he can use in Arizona next season.
Jackson has been splitting his time in the field, playing both first base and left field. He has also been used as the designated hitter, meaning he is keeping his playing options open for his Arizona return.
The Diamondbacks have to be excited at this news. There have been questions as to whether Jackson would be able to return after missing nearly a year with Valley Fever. If these first 23 games are any indication, the Diamondbacks offense is going to get a much needed boost in 2010 from a rejuvenated Conor Jackson.
At one point Arizona was considering non-tendering Jackson to a contract next season. Given his performance for Leones del Escogido, that decision has long past and fans can look forward to seeing number 34 back in a Diamondbacks uniform.
The only question remaining, will Jackson be patrolling first base or left field for Arizona next season?
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