Red Sox, Brian Johnson Close to Deal

The Boston Red Sox and first-round draft pick Brian Johnson are close to agreeing to a signing bonus, reports Alex Speier of WEEI.

The 31st overall pick in this year’s draft, the left-hander out of the University of Florida is expected to sign for the allotted slot value of $1.575 million when he visits Boston today.

A two-way player (first base and pitcher) in his time with the Gators, Johnson will focus on pitching as a member of the Red Sox organization. The 6' 3" lefty hit a solid .307/.350/.460 with six home runs this year while putting up a 3.90 ERA with 73 strikeouts in 90 innings across 17 starts.

On Johnson's future, Boston scouting director Amiel Sawdaye said:

The fastball is at 90-94. He can pitch with a plus fastball, can spin a breaking ball, throws two different breaking balls, obviously has a feel for his changeup, very repeatable delivery and it’s a guy that throws strikes.

Johnson's deal is still pending a physical today.