Red Sox Prospect Watch: Talent is showing in minor leagues

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Apr 18, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Brian Johnson (61) pitches to the Toronto Blue Jays during the second inning at the Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /

Pawtucket Red Sox

The aforementioned first round pick is Brian Johnson, and he has had a very good 2017 campaign. The former University of Florida standout has had an up and down career in Boston’s system, but he seems to have put it together this year. In 5 starts this year, Johnson has a very good 2.64 ERA. Also, he has racked up 26 strikeouts, which is a high number for him.

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The only concerning statistic for Johnson is his high 1.34 WHIP. For those who are not familiar, that is walks and hits divided by innings pitched. It is a very good barometer of how a pitcher is performing, because it shows truly how dominant, or lack there of, a pitcher is.

Brian Johnson already made a spot start this year in Toronto. It was not the best start, as he gave up 4 runs over 5 innings. With the current state of the rotation in Boston, there is an outside chance that he would be able to make the MLB roster.

There are realistically three spots that are locked up. Chris Sale, Rick Porcello, and a healthy David Price all will be in the rotation. Drew Pomeranz is out of minor league options, but he might not be a starter all year. He came out of the bullpen last year, and that could easily happen this year. Also, Eduardo Rodriguez still has an option left, and he has injury concerns.

Enter Brian Johnson. Currently, Kyle Kendrick is in the rotation. Personally, I don’t understand why he is and not Johnson. If Johnson keeps pitching well, he might force his way back into Boston.

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