After reading through a bunch of posts I haven't found a clear answer. My question is will a synthetic blend such as "Castrol Syntec Blend" have a better chance of leaking through seals/gaskets than a conventional oil?
Really depends on the oil, the condition of the engine and the gaskets, and the overall design of the engine, as well as the viscosity of blended oil you intend to add.
BTW, I wouldn't even consider that Castrol product to be a "blend". Its conventional oil, with not a drop of synthetic in it