Micah Johnson “Steals” His Way to MVP Honors in SAL All Star Game

Micah Johnson, Chicago White Sox prospect with the Class-A Kannapolis Intimidators, “stole” the show in Tuesday’s South Atlantic League All Star Game in Lakewood, New Jersey (home of the Lakewood Phillies), leading the Northern Division in a 2-1 victory over the Southern Division that was shortened to seven innings due to inclement weather.

In the third inning, Johnson stole second and third base on consecutive pitches, coming around to score the go-ahead run on a fielder’s choice.

In all, Johnson went 1-for-2 at the plate and was named the MVP of the game for his efforts both at the plate and on the base paths.

A ninth-round draft pick by the White Sox in the 2012 MLB Amateur Draft, Johnson has been impressive in his first two seasons in professional baseball. In 66 games this season, Johnson has batted .339 (87-for-257) with five home runs and 36 RBI; however, the most impressive aspect of his game is his base running.

Johnson currently leads the minor leagues with 56 stolen bases, increasing his total from 19 in the Rookie League last season.

“I just try to get on base and create things with the speed God gave me,” said Johnson. “I don’t steal to get records. I steal to score runs and help my team.”

Johnson did just that on Tuesday, stealing not one, but two bases and was able to help his team (in this instance, a team comprised of his fellow competitors) take home the South Atlantic League All Star Game title.