- Full name Kade Johnson
- Born
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
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Rated seventh on this list a year ago, Johnson fell because he simply didn't catch enough in 2001. In 101 games at High Desert, he went behind the plate just 62 times while playing 16 games in the outfield and DHing the rest of the time. Nagging injuries and a low pain threshold cost him time as a catcher, and Johnson still must prove he can be counted on defensively. Besides health concerns, he also makes too many errors, though he still shows good arm strength despite shoulder surgery in 2000. Not many catchers can hit with the power that Johnson has displayed, so his best path to the big leagues is at that position. If he can't play behind the plate, his value is significantly diminished. Johnson could be a 20- 25 home run hitter in the majors, but he'll probably always strike out a lot. Catching depth is a problem in the organization, so he'll move up quickly if he gets his game together and stays healthy. -
Johnson was an unknown quantity until the end of the 2000 season. After setting a junior college record with 38 homers in 1999, he signed too late to play make his pro debut, then showed up last spring with a shoulder injury that required surgery. He turned heads with six homers in three playoff games for Ogden. Even before his playoff explosion, Johnson displayed his chief tool by socking 10 homers in just 98 at-bats. It was a welcome sight for an organization hurting for a legitimate power-hitting prospect. Prior to his shoulder surgery, he showed good arm strength, and he's a take-charge guy behind the plate. Johnson must show he can stay healthy, and he needs to play after barely seeing action since turning pro. He was throwing fine in instructional league, so the Brewers hope the shoulder surgery won't make him a liability with the running game. Though Johnson has played little as a pro, the Brewers believe he can handle a Class A assignment to begin the 2001 season. Catching depth is a real problem in the organization, so he could move up fast if he gets the job done.