Jim Johnson is a former professional baseball player who played as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball (MLB) for over a decade. He was born on June 27, 1983, in Johnson City, New York, and attended Union-Endicott High School in Endicott, New York. Johnson played college baseball at Union College in Schenectady, New York, where he was a standout pitcher.
Johnson was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the fifth round of the 2001 MLB draft. He made his MLB debut with the Orioles in 2006 and spent the majority of his career with the team. Johnson was primarily used as a relief pitcher and was known for his sinkerball, which induced many ground balls and double plays.
In 2012, Johnson had a breakout season as the Orioles' closer, recording 51 saves and earning his first All-Star selection. He finished the season with a 2.49 earned run average (ERA) and helped lead the Orioles to the playoffs. Johnson continued to be a reliable closer for the Orioles in the following seasons, recording 50 saves in 2013 and 22 saves in 2014.
After leaving the Orioles in 2013, Johnson played for several other teams, including the Oakland Athletics, Detroit Tigers, Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Angels, and Los Angeles Dodgers. He continued to be a reliable relief pitcher, although he never replicated the success he had as a closer with the Orioles.
Johnson retired from baseball in 2019 after playing for the Triple-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies. Over his career, he recorded 177 saves, a 3.81 ERA, and 1,018 strikeouts in 833 innings pitched. Johnson was known for his work ethic and professionalism, and he was respected by his teammates and coaches.
Off the field, Johnson was involved in several charitable organizations, including the OriolesREACH program, which supports various community initiatives in Baltimore. He also founded the Jim Johnson Pitching Academy, which provides coaching and training for young baseball players.
In conclusion, Jim Johnson had a successful career as a relief pitcher in MLB, primarily with the Baltimore Orioles. He was a reliable closer and a respected teammate, known for his sinkerball and work ethic. Johnson retired in 2019 and continues to be involved in charitable organizations and coaching young baseball players.
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