The Baltimore Orioles signed first baseman Nick Johnson to a minor league deal last month. Why am I devoting a post to a player who will more than likely serve as a backup? Well, that is if he makes the Opening Day squad.
Well, I’ve been following Johnson since he started off his career with the New York Yankees, and he is the epitome of a classic ballplayer. In his early years, Johnson
Well, this deal is another in a good amount of ‘value’ or ‘bargain-bin’ contracts that Dan Duquette has offered to veterans and minor league free agents this season.
Johnson is quite intriguing — at least to me. He’s a hell of a ballplayer — a good eye, very good bat, slick glove and very good instincts — however, he’s had quite a struggle staying healthy. I remember Johnson with the Yankees, Expos/Nationals and when healthy, he can help out a ballclub.
At this point, I don’t see Johnson as an everyday guy as he is just so brittle.
I do wish him well. If there’s a spot for Johnson in the organization, maybe he can prove himself again in the minors before being given a spot on the big league club.
