National Outlets React to the Pirates Drafting Termarr Johnson

When the Pirates drafted Termarr Johnson at number four overall, Pirates’ Twitter exploded with several emotions. Some Pirates fans were enthralled, others were even-keeled, and some even made lofty expectations for an 18-year-old kid who has yet to see a professional at-bat. Either way, the consensus feeling is Johnson has a great hit tool and doesn’t lack confidence himself.

R.J. Anderson of CBS Sports tweeted out a great example of how good Johnson’s hit tool and Baseball IQ can be once he is inserted into the Pirates’ system.

Had a veteran scout, who is not prone to hyperbole, throw an 80 on Johnson’s future hit tool. He’s also regarded as having arguably the top baseball IQ in the class, depending on who you talk to (some scouts prefer Brooks Lee in that department).

— R.J. Anderson (@r_j_anderson) July 17, 2022

An 80 grade is Mike Trout territory. A scout even compared Johnson to Wade Boggs’ plate discipline and Vlad Guerrero Sr.’s ball skills. While there needs to be some pumping of the breaks on comparisons, there is something to be said about an 18-year-old high school kid getting those lofty comparisons.

In terms of the confidence aspect, several national outlets spoke to Johnson and were blown away by the confidence. Johnson was even quoted as saying, “The Pirates are getting the best player in the draft.”

Just talked with Termarr Johnson, who went to the Pirates fourth overall, on ESPN’s draft broadcast, and his confidence is fantastic. While others see a potential move to second base, he said he wants to play shortstop, even with Oneil Cruz there now, and will work to stay there.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) July 17, 2022

Termarr Johnson on @MLBNetwork about what the Pirates are getting in him: "They're getting the best player in the Draft."

— Jake Crouse (@JakeCrouseMLB) July 17, 2022

Pirates first-rounder Termarr Johnson: “They got the best player in the draft.” pic.twitter.com/jpVuFqCeug

— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) July 18, 2022

Termarr Johnson goes to the #Pirates, and in emotional interview says. ‘We did it.’’

— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) July 17, 2022

Does first-rounder Termarr Johnson expect to sign quickluy w/Pirates?
"I don’t know whether I’ll sign tomorrow or next week or even at the deadline. But I know God has a plan for me. Honestly, I’m ready to get to work. I’m ready to go to the cage."

— RobBiertempfel (@RobBiertempfel) July 18, 2022

The Pirates now have a crop of middle infielders with Nick Gonzales, Liover Peguero, Oneil Cruz, among others. Although Johnson has been comped to move to second base, he said he sees himself as a shortstop, and he plans on winning rings when it becomes his time.

Pirates fans, how are you feeling about Pittsburgh’s 2022 first-round pick? Let us know in the comments! Do you feel the same way some of these tweets feel?