AB 1866
AVG .263
OBP .32
SLG .402
HR 49
  • Full name John Seth Johnston
  • Born 03/12/1983 in San Antonio, TX
  • Profile Ht.: 6'3" / Wt.: 204 / Bats: R / Throws: R
  • School Texas
  • Drafted in the 5th round (158th overall) by the San Diego Padres in 2005 (signed for $105,000).
    View Draft Report
    Johnston was a surprise seventh-round pick last year by the Orioles after flying low on the scouting radar, and he should go even higher this spring after turning down a $100,000 offer from Baltimore. He's a college senior with little leverage, so that makes him more attractive from a budget standpoint, but he'd go in the third round on merit. His talent and reduced price tag could put him in the supplemental first round. Johnston's best tool is his bat, and he resembles Jeff Kent with less power. Johnston can drive the ball to the gaps, and could hit more homers if he adds strength to his solid frame. He moved from second base to shortstop this year and handled the move with aplomb. He has average speed, range and arm strength to go with good hands and a knack for making plays in the hole. He's probably not a big league shortstop, though he could handle the position on a utility basis. He has tremendous makeup and won't let himself fall short of his potential.

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