Johnson originally started his MLB career with the Balitmore Orioles. As the starting second baseman, he helped the club win 4 American League pennants and 2 World Series titles between 1965 and 1972. Johnson also played for the Atlanta Braves, Philadelphia Phillies, and Chicago Cubs.
Johnson began his major league managerial career with the New York Mets from 1984 to 1990. In each of his first five seasons with the franchise he won 90 games or more. In '86 he led the Mets to a World Series championship. He next managed the Cinncinatti Reds from 1993 to 1995. Again, he turned the franchise into a winner. In 1995 he guided the club to its first NL Central title. He then went on to manage the Orioles (1996-1997) and the Los Angeles Dodgers (1999-2000). Johnson led the Orioles to the playoffs in '97 and also the American League East title. With the Dodgers, however, Johnson finished his first season 8 games below .500. The next season the Dodgers came back to finish second in the division but it was still not enough to keep Johnson around as their manager.
It's been eleven years since Johnson last managed an MLB team. He inherits a very young roster that has promising talent already on it. Johnson will also acquire one of the best farm systems in the MLB. With the likes of Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper in his back pocket for next season. The team has a great rhythm currently to its season. Hopefully the transition between managers will swift and painless for a franchise that is on a roll.
great blog brian and thanks for the skinny!
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