Steve Campbell says that the Astros have signed undrafted IF/OF Neiko Johnson, out of the University of Kentucky.
The Wildcats had this to say about Johnson, before the season:
Extremely athletic and versatile talent, will have the ability to have a breakout season as a fifth-year senior ... Regarded by UK's coaches as the best base runner in the SEC, stole 24-of-25 bases in just 21 starts as a junior ... Has excellent base running instincts ... Can play nearly any position on the field, seeing time at second, third and shortstop in the infield and also logging time in the outfield ... Will compete for starting positions at second base and rightfield ... In addition to above-average base running skills, has excellent plate discipline and pitch recognition, translating to a high on-base percentage ... Could be a prototypical top of the order hitter in UK's speed-based offensive attack.
In 18 games, Johnson hit .333/.444/.550, with 7K:10BB. He injured his finger sliding into second base, and missed 34 games.
He'll head to Tri-City.
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith
