Tyler

Johnson

Johnson, one of the Cardinals’ top pitching prospects, was 5-5 with a 3.08 ERA, 79 H and 81/38 K/BB in 79 IP for Palm Beach.

There may not be room for him on the A’s, but going into the draft, Johnson was probably the best bet to be selected and stick on a roster all season long. Although the reliever had a 4.79 ERA for Double-A Tennessee last season, his excellent curve allowed him to fan 77 in 56 1/3 IP. He’ll eventually be a quality reliever.

Johnson had a 4.27 ERA in 59 innings as a reliever for Memphis, but he maintained his exceptional strikeoute rate -- he fanned 77 batters -- and he had pitched rather well recently. It seems that he’s moved back ahead of Carmen Cali in the Cardinals’ plans, although that doesn’t necessarily mean he’ll remain on the 40-man roster spot this winter.

It’s not a surprise that the A’s didn’t have room for Johnson, but some team with less bullpen depth should have given him a second look. He has the potential to be a very good lefty reliever.

Johnson has had a rough month -- probably because of the soreness -- but this is still a big loss for the Cardinals. Randy Flores will get more work in close games.

Mike Maroth will likely be optioned to the minors when the team activates Johnson.

Out since mid-June with biceps tendinitis, Johnson will slide back into a middle relief role in the Cardinals’ bullpen. He replaces Mike Maroth, who was placed on the disabled list after posting a hideous 14.05 ERA over his last 24 1/3 innings.

Johnson will pitch in back-to-back games on Friday and Saturday and then could be activated from the disabled list early next week.

Johnson has been sick since Sunday. He may join the Cardinals in Milwaukee on Tuesday.