Cody Johnson

One veteran Florida area scout summed up sentiment on Johnson, saying, "I don't know if he can hit or not. One day he's Ryan Howard and the next he's Eddie Pearson," making reference to the White Sox' first round pick in 1992 who never fulfilled his potential. Johnson was the talk of last summer's showcase circuit, picking up MVP award in Marietta, Ga., at Perfect Game wood bat events. He was Aflac's Jackie Robinson Award winner in August, which was around the same time he started to slump. Johnson has a hitch in his swing that hinders his ability to catch up to good fastballs, especially above his hands. His pitch recognition is below-average, as is his defense in the outfield. What makes him intriguing is his plus raw power. He drives balls with loft and carry to all parts of the park, and when he extends his long arms he can really mash. He performed better this spring, but his holes remain glaring. He has above-average arm strength but lacks feel and doesn't take good routes in the outfield. His hands are stiff and he's not fluid at first base, either. He has turned in sub-7.0-second 60-yard dash times, although his times from home to first are typically around 4.2 seconds. Johnson has a good work ethic and age on his side--he doesn't turn 18 until mid-August--but signability could come into play if he isn't drafted in the first two or three rounds. He has committed to Florida State.