Chicago Cubs Minors: Checking in with talent down on the farm

Pierce Johnson, RHP

Former first round draft pick Pierce Johnson made his major league debut on Friday. Johnson worked one inning, allowing two hits, and two runs ( zero earned). In addition to that, Johnson struck out two batters and walked one.

Despite a shaky major league debut, Johnson tore up Triple-A this season. In 13 appearances for Iowa, Johnson recorded a 2.81 ERA with five saves in 16 innings pitched. Johnson also struck out 23 batters while walking just 11.

The 26-year-old right-hander is averaging 12.9 strikeouts per nine innings which is well above his career average of nine strikeouts per nine innings.

Johnson was the first pitcher selected by the Cubs under Theo Epstein and could prove to be valuable at some point in the near future.

The Cubs will lose 40 percent of their starting rotation after the 2017 season. Johnson could be an option to plug one of those holes moving forward. In 100 minor league appearances over six seasons, Johnson has made 73 starts. Despite that, Johnson has yet to make a start for Iowa this year, instead working in the latter innings of games.

Whatever the Cubs’ plans are for Johnson, they will likely involve him being promoted to the major leagues again at some point this season. As he continues to gain experience, expect Johnson to stick on the big league roster and start providing the Cubs with some pitching depth.