Mets Deal Collin Cowgill to Angels for Minor League OF Kyle Johnson

According to a release from the team, the Mets have dealt outfielder Collin Cowgill (who was recently DFA’d) to the Los Angeles Angels for minor league outfielder Kyle Johnson.

Apr 1, 2013; New York, NY, USA; New York Mets center fielder Collin Cowgill (4) rounds second base after hitting a grand slam against the San Diego Padres during the seventh inning of a MLB opening day game at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Cowgill, 27, was acquired by the Mets last December in exchange for minor leaguer Jefry Marte.  Before the season began, Terry Collins stated that Cowgill would be the every day center fielder.  However, after just 50 or so plate appearances, the Mets demoted Cowgill to AAA Las Vegas.  He was called up a few weeks ago, but was again given no chance to prove himself before he was designated for assignment.  Overall, Cowgill hit .180 in just 63 plate appearances this season for the Mets.

Johnson, 23, was drafted in the 25th round of last year’s amateur draft from Washington State University.  The 6’0″, 180 pound right-handed hitting outfielder hit .289 with a .387 OBP last year while playing for Orem, a rookie team in the Pioneer League.  Prior to the trade, Johnson was hitting .310 with a .414 OBP in 67 games for Burlington (A-Ball) of the Midwest League.  He hit 2 homers, drove in 30 runs, and stole 30 bases.

Johnson was primarily playing right field for Burlington, but also saw limited time in center field.  He’s known to have quick hands and plus speed, but he’ll have to move fast (considering he’s a 23 year old in A-Ball) to be considered a true prospect.

Per Adam Rubin, Johnson will be joining Low-A Savannah.

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