The Pittsburgh Pirates selected second baseman Termarr Johnson fourth overall in the 2022 MLB draft, but his career has taken a downturn, highlighted by a .199 batting average at Triple-A Indianapolis and a serious left knee injury requiring surgery. Once a top prospect, Johnson has struggled with consistency, slashing .239 over five minor league seasons and facing increased competition from emerging talent like Nick Gonzales. He is now at risk of becoming one of the franchise’s disappointing first-round picks, needing protection on the 40-man roster for the upcoming Rule 5 Draft. The organization’s decision on Johnson may reflect poorly on the Ben Cherington era of drafting.


