The Pittsburgh Pirates are off to a slow start, sitting at (9-15) which is currently last in the NL Central division. The good news is the franchise is only 5.5 games behind the first place Chicago Cubs. With still over 135 games left in the season, there’s plenty of time for the Pirates to make a move and possibly secure their first playoff spot since a 2015 wildcard loss to the aforementioned Cubs.
With hard-throwing pitcher Paul Skenes who was the No.1 overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, talented shortstop O’Neil Cruz and longtime fan favorite Andrew McCutcheon leading the way, the cupboard isn’t empty on the banks of “Three Rivers.” The Pirates also have some nice pieces in their farm system, one being talented shortstop/second baseman Termarr Johnson who’s the club’s No.4 prospect.
Termarr Johnson Close To Major League Call Up
When the Pirates chose Johnson with the No.4 pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, the hope was he would become a key piece of core of the future. Thus far in his minor league career he hasn’t disappointed, and because of that the growing belief is he could reach the majors at some point this season or early next season.
In fact R.J. Anderson had a lot to say recently as it pertains to Johnson as a prospect.
“Johnson, the fourth pick in the 2022 draft, hasn’t blazed through the minors as quickly as classmate Jackson Holliday — nor has he lived up to draft night expectations that he would develop a plus-plus hit tool. Nevertheless, he’s getting closer to his big-league arrival by beginning this year in Double-A.
Johnson has reliably been a productive hitter, even if the shape of that production (it’s been walk-heavy) hasn’t matched the forecasts. Double-A tends to be the ultimate minor-league proving ground. If Johnson can keep producing there, he just might find himself in The Show either late this year or early next.”
Still only 21, Johnson is currently batting .250 in Double-A Altoona which is 21 points higher than his average last year.
Johnson’s Reputation As Pure Hitter Shined In Sunday Return
After injuring his knee in a Friday tilt versus Somerset, Johnson sat out Saturday’s contest. He returned on Sunday and was pretty productive going (2-5) with a double and one run scored. His return was a welcome sight for the Pirates organization as they continue to evaluate his progress in hopes of seeing make the jump to the majors later this season.
Since he was drafted Johnson has been touted by the organization as a pure hitter with excellent pitch recognition. He also displays very good strike-zone discipline with a compact bat with steadily rising power.
