Rent-a-Johnson

Just before the deadline, the Florida Marlins traded for Washington Nationals first baseman Nick Johnson. When the Fish trade for a player, he’s usually some useless aging relief pitcher with Styrofoam for ligaments in his throwing shoulder. But this time, the Marlins landed a much-needed bat in hopes that his...

By Chris Joseph

August 13, 2009

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Just before the deadline, the Florida Marlins traded for Washington Nationals first baseman Nick Johnson. When the Fish trade for a player, he’s usually some useless aging relief pitcher with Styrofoam for ligaments in his throwing shoulder. But this time, the Marlins landed a much-needed bat in hopes that his discipline at the plate will offset the rest of the team’s fondness for swinging wildly. Johnson has a career .399 OBP and .499 slugging. He plays some nifty defense and looks like Private Pyle from Full Metal Jacket. Also, he once shaved lightning bolts onto his scalp. What’s not to like?

Sure, like most good players we trade for, he’ll be gone in the off-season. But for now, it’s Johnson time! Florida will take on the Colorado Rockies this Sunday at LandShark Stadium.
Sat., Aug. 15, 5:05 p.m., 2009

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