 |
(Photo by Kelly O'Connor)
|
"Who?", we can hear many of our readers shouting at the notion of
Brian Johnson as a possible fifth starter in the Red Sox rotation. But a careful look at the organization's depth—and the fact that Johnson is a lefty—might make him an option in that role at least in the second half of 2015. Johnson will soon be 24, making him a little more seasoned than other lefty choices (like the electric, but only 21-year old
Eduardo Rodriguez). Johnson was Boston's first round pick two years ago (out of the University of Florida), and progressed nicely in 2014—(13-3, 2.13 ERA, 0.97 WHIP in 25 overall starts at AA and AAA). The authoritative
SoxProspects.com cites Johnson's 'easy delivery' and 'smooth, repeatable mechanics'—all delivered from a 6'3" frame. He features a mid-90's fastball, a plus curve and a change-up. He's got a chance at Fenway in 2015.
