Graham Johnson Stats & Scouting Report

Full name Graham A. Johnson
Born 10/13/1989 in Newbury Park, CA
Profile Ht.: 6'6" / Wt.: 215 / Bats: R / Throws: R
School Westlake
Drafted in the 6th round (178th overall) by the Miami Marlins in 2008 (signed for $150,000).

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Johnson, who did not participate in any of the prominent summer or fall showcases, first came to the attention of local scouts in fall scout ball games. He's 6-foot-7 and was just emerging after starting this season in the bullpen at Westlake High. He got exposure when scouts came to see teammates Cutter Dykstra and Shane Kroker. At his best, the Fresno State recruit delivers a lively 91-93 mph fastball from a low three-quarters slot. He adds a hard curveball and a changeup, though both need work. Johnson's primary obstacle is his severe lack of control and command, which causes him to get behind hitters and run up high pitch counts. Part of that is inexperience, another part is growing into his large frame. However, in this spring season Johnson has become a big favorite of local scouts, who are fascinated by his intimidating frame and electric raw stuff.

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Johnson wasn't a regular on the high school showcase circuit and was overshadowed at Westlake High (Westlake Village, Calif.) by the likes of Lenny Dykstra's son Cutter. A late bloomer as a senior, Johnson spurned a Fresno State scholarship to sign for $150,000 out of the sixth round in 2008. Tall and lanky, he needs to refine his command and gain more strength, but the raw materials are here. He pitches at 88-90 mph and touches 92 mph with his fastball, and the Marlins believe he'll add velocity as he fills out. With the help of pitching coordinator Wayne Rosenthal, Johnson has revamped his delivery to take better advantage of his natural leverage. He has moved his arm slot from low three-quarters to a full three-quarters and stands taller on the mound. In turn, that has helped his slider get more bite. He continues to refine his changeup, which has some cut to it and is a plus pitch at times. Quiet and hard-working, Johnson could move quickly once everything clicks for him. He figures to open 2010 in high Class A.