Brian Johnson to Boston Red Sox: Video Highlights, Scouting Report and Analysis

Position: LHP

Height/Weight: 6’4”/220 lbs

Bats/Throws: L/L

DOB: 12/7/1990

College: Florida

Year: JR

Despite being a standout two-way player for Florida, Johnson has considerably more upside on the mound. The broad-shouldered left-hander boasts a fastball that sits at 90-94 mph, as well as a variation that cuts and sinks at a few ticks lower.

Overall, Johnson exhibits command of four pitches, including a slider that ranges from an above-average to plus offering. He’s adept at attacking both right- and left-handed hitters and has shown an ability to work both sides of the plate with all his pitches.

His size, repeatable mechanics and pitchability are comparable to C.J. Wilson’s, although I’m not entirely convinced he has as much upside. Still, Johnson is both left-handed and one of the more polished pitchers in the 2012 draft class. Look for him to reach the majors as early as late 2013 and probably by late 2014.

Analysis: A very high-upside guy, Johnson is a great pick for the Red Sox late in the first round. Boston's starting pitching has been subpar so far this season, so having a guy like Wilson who could see the big leagues and contribute sooner rather than later is a valuable asset in its farm system.