Johnstone is excelling for Cutters at bottom of order
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Williamsport Crosscutter outfielder Logan Johnstone has been able to make a real impression. Born in Budapest, Hungary, and now living in California, Johnstone was given the task to start the opening two games of the season in centerfield while batting in the bottom of the order.
The situation provides a double whammy scenario for Johnstone.
Yes, he has secured a starting spot for the Cutters, but has been given the unenviable task of being the focal point of the outfield while batting in the bottom of the order, thus given the least amount of at bats compared to those starting above him.
But in this role where some falter, the Californian has proven to shine through the start of the season.
On the defensive side, Johnstone has proven competent, fielding 100% of his receptions through two games.
But at the plate is where the 22-year-old has really excelled. Despite being stationed in the bottom of the order, no one on the Cutters has more hits (five) while securing an on base percentage of .556, also first on the Cutters.
In the context of the MLB Draft League, only West Virginia's Jonny McGill has matched Johnstone on hits this season despite the Williamsport outfielder having two less at bats.
"It's about focusing on keeping it simple, and being able to help out the team as best as possible;" discussed Johnstone during Friday batting practice. "Hunting fastballs and adjusting off speeds. I've kind of been able to mentally and physically help the team out (in that way)."
In game one, the center fielder went three for five, with two runs batted in. The highlight of which included a fifth inning RBI double that extended Williamsport's lead, a lead that the Cutters never gave up in a 13-4 rout.
Hits came more at a premium in game two with just five total runs scored. Even so, Johnstone shined in the nine hole, going 2 for 4 and providing depth to a Williamsport side that would double their win tally on a 3-2 sweep securing win.
Throughout his young career, Johnstone has proven to be a reliable hitter in all aspects. In three different Summer League ball clubs -- the Hastings Sodbusters in 2021, Corvallis Knights in 2022, and Thunder Bay Border Cats in 2023 -- Johnstone compiled a combined .305 batting average with 55 total RBIs across 102 games played.
But even with his lightning start, Johnstone acknowledges that the Draft League is a different kettle of fish.
"To college it's pretty similar, the competition is a little better here," discussed Johnstone, who started his college career with Gonzaga before transferring to Washington State. "But compared to other Summer Ball Leagues, (the comparison) is not even close. I think how we get treated, the environment, and also the competition is off the charts compared to the other two (I've played in). Nothing against the other two, but it's a lot better."
His early spurt, mixed in with his maturity and experience at the level, seemed to have turned heads within the Williamsport coaching staff, with Johnstone moving up to second in the batting order for Friday night's clash with the Mahoning Valley Scrappers.
But whether its second or ninth, the early showings tell that Williamsport will have a gamer on both sides of the diamond during the first half with Johnstone, and may quickly be enamored by Williamsport fans as he enamors the city.
"I like (Williamsport) alot," said the outfielder. "I think it's a cool small town. I've heard the environment here is great at the ballfield so that's what I'm most looking forward to."