DJ Johnson

Johnson reached the majors for the first time shortly after his 29th birthday last September, allowing three runs in 6.1 innings of relief while posting a strong 9:2 K:BB. That strike-zone dominance is likely what earned him his promotion, as he struck out an excellent 35.7% of batters while walking just 6.4% at Triple-A Albuquerque. He was a 28-year-old at that level, but nonetheless the performance represented a significant step forward for the righty, as he previously hadn't recorded a strikeout rate higher than 21.5% at any minor-league stop longer than 10 innings since all the way back in 2012. Johnson now seems to be a new pitcher, and his fastball-slider combo could make him a solid middle reliever. His lack of big-league experience may prevent him from making the Opening Day roster, but he should be capable enough when given the chance.