Report: Blue Jays, Reds, Braves interested in Kelly Johnson
Free-agent utility man Kelly Johnson is receiving interest from at least three teams as Opening Day approaches.
The Toronto Blue Jays, Atlanta Braves, and Cincinnati Reds have all checked in with Johnson about a non-roster deal, a source told Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports. The 11-year veteran is reportedly holding out for a major-league contract, however.
Johnson is one of the top remaining bats on the market. The 35-year-old is coming off a season in which he hit .247/.306/.391 with 10 home runs and 14 doubles in 131 games split between the Braves and New York Mets.
In addition to offering some power from the left side, Johnson adds plenty of defensive versatility. He appeared at all four infield positions and left field last season.
Johnson was a member of the Blue Jays from 2011-12, appearing in 175 games, and spent parts of six seasons in Atlanta.