Josh Johnson Could be Available
By Matt Pignataro ~ November 21st, 2009. Filed under: Rumor Mill.
According to Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.com, the Marlins and Josh Johnson have been unable to reach a contract extension, that could force the Marlins deal him before he becomes a free agent in 2011.
All the way back on October 22, I wrote a post on SevenTraintoShea.com, saying that Johnson could be available. Here is that post:
A couple of weeks ago during a press conference addressing the Mets awful season, Omar Minaya said he will explore the trade route in order to improve the club.
The Mets desperately need a legitimate number two starter behind Johan Santana. Free agent wise, John Lackey comes first to mind, but trade wise could be in the Mets own backyard.
In talking with several scouts, Marlins pitcher Josh Johnson could be available this off season, as the Marlins try to cash in before he hits free agency.
Johnson, 25, last season was 15-5 with a 3.23 ERA in 209 IP, while striking out 191. Johnson is eligible for arbitration and is free agency after the 2011 season.
If I’m Minaya, I’m going after Johnson even if the Marlins are in my own division. Here you have someone who is young, has dominant stuff, has potential to anchor a staff in the future, goes deep into games and is under contract for the next couple of seasons.
Obviously, Johnson will not be cheap being the Marlins best pitcher, but could be cheaper than offering a contract to John Lackey. Personally, I would trade Fernando Martinez, Wilmer Flores, or Brad Holt for Johnson, along with prospects. As I’ve stated before, I would rather take the proven guy over the prospect any day. And did I mention the Mets desperately need a number two starter behind Santana.
