Colorado Rockies select LeBarron Johnson Jr. on Day 2

The Colorado Rockies selected a Texas Longhorn on Monday afternoon for the second time in the MLB Draft. In the fifth round, Colorado used the 139th overall pick on RHP Lebarron Johnson Jr. He will join fellow Longhorn Jared Thomas , who heard his name called on Sunday.

During the 2024 campaign, Johnson appeared in 17 games, making 15 starts. In 72.1 innings, he posted a 5.60 ERA and struck out 84 batters. While his numbers may not jump off the page, he showed his potential in his final start of the season against Texas A&M. Against the national runner-up, the talented RHP struck out eight batters in five innings.

Over the last three years, the Jacksonville native posted a 4.04 ERA in 55 games for the Longhorns. As Johnson split time between the bullpen and rotation, he struck out 203 batters and helped opponents to a .248 batting average. For an organization that has struggled to develop pitching, his versatility will be a welcome addition for the Rockies.

With one year of eligibility left, Johnson has until August 1 to decide whether to return to Texas or sign with the Rockies. The value for the 139th overall pick’s signing bonus is $500,000, but that is not set in stone.

If the Rockies can sign Johnson, they will add a pitcher with an intriguing pitch mix. His arsenal includes a fastball that tops out in the low 90s paired with a splitter and cutter that keep batters off balance.

Over the next few weeks, Johnson will be a player to watch as he decides what is best for his baseball career.