Tyler Johnson

Position: RH RP
Born: 8/21/1995
Ht: 6’3″ Wt: 210 lb
Acquired: Drafted 5th round in the 2017 draft out of the University of South Carolina
Career Stats

FutureSox Prospect Rankings

  • #24 – 2018 Midseason
  • #20 – 2019 Preseason
  • #19 – 2019 Midseason
  • #19 – 2020 Preseason
  • #23 – 2020 Midseason
  • #26 – 2021 Preseason

FutureSox Media

Accolades

  • Pioneer League All-Star, 2017 Midseason
  • South Atlantic League All-Star, 2018 Midseason
  • Arizona Fall League Rising Stars Game, 2019

Scouting Report

Johnson spent some time starting for the Gamecocks, but has been pitching in high-leverage relief roles in the White Sox system. He had struggled with command and control in the past, but improved dramatically in that area as a pro. In 2017, the right-hander threw 15.2 innings for Low-A Kannapolis. He posted a 3.14 FIP with 21 strikeouts and 12 walks in 15 2/3 innings. Johnson reported back to Kannapolis to start the 2018 season. His command was much better. In 27 innings, Tyler posted a 1.87 FIP while cutting his walk rate to 3.3 BB/9. Johnson also averaged 15.3 K/9. He earned a promotion to High-A and was even more dominant. He had a 12.5 K/9 and 1.7 BB/9 in 31 innings. He finished the season with a combined 1.40 ERA and a 13.8 K/0 and a 2.5 BB/9.

In 2019, Johnson returned to Winston-Salem before being promoted to Double-A Birmingham. An injury limited him to 18 1/3 innings with the Barons, but he did fare well (3.44 ERA, 23 K, 6 BB).

Johnson has a 65-grade fastball that sits in the 93-97 mph range. He also possesses a 55-60 grade slider that has improved of late. The slider usually sits in the low 80s and has bite. Johnson locates his fastball well and pounds the lower part of the strike zone. His changeup is just average, but he won’t need to throw it often in a relief role.

Major League Outlook: Middle reliever
ETA: 2021