"The best pitcher you never heard of"
That was the use of words to describe Josh Johnson on XM satellite radio by Joe Castellano. Johnson's numbers back that claim. Although Johnson's 5-4 record doesn't do him justice, his ERA (2.05) and his strikeout to walk ratio (54:26) prove that the 6'7 right-hander will be in the majors for good. The fourth round draft pick in 2002 was named NL Rookie of the month for May after his ERA (1.96) was lowest among fellow freshmen.
His rookie season has taken him along many challenges. He started the season out of the bullpen but a 3.86 ERA from the pen called for a promotion. He got his first start of the season on May 4 in our nation's capital where he went five innings and allowed just two runs. He has out pitched Livan Hernandez and Pedro Martinez throughout his rookie campaign. His two losses as a starter came due to Marlin killer Jason Schmidt allowing just two earned runs in 14.2 innings. Not to mention that whole striking out 16 Marlins on D-day.
Every one of Johnson's starts this season has been low scoring. The most runs he allowed in a game were three. Despite where the 24-37 Marlins go this season, Johnson will continue to be the name people have yet to hear.
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