Howard Johnsonnull – Baseball Player Biography, Career, Net Worth Information

Howard Johnson, known to fans as “HoJo,” wrapped up his major league career after the 1995 season with the Chicago Cubs, closing the book on a vibrant 14-year run in the big leagues. He played his last year with the Cubs in 1995, finishing a career that included two World Series championships and entry into the rare 30-30 club (30 home runs and 30 stolen bases in a single season). As a switch-hitting infielder, Johnson brought a unique versatility that made him valuable wherever he played.

He bounced around a few teams—the Detroit Tigers, the Colorado Rockies—but really, it was with the New York Mets from 1985 to 1993 that he left his biggest mark. During his prime with the Mets, Johnson became one of the National League’s most dynamic third basemen, winning Silver Slugger awards and showing off a mix of power and speed that just didn’t come along every day. Pitchers probably dreaded facing him, since he could hit for power from both sides of the plate.

Early Life and Baseball Beginnings

Howard Johnson’s path to MLB began in his Florida childhood, where he fell in love with baseball early. The sunshine state gave him a year-round chance to hone his game, and eventually, he landed with the Detroit Tigers organization, starting his professional journey.

Howard Johnson’s Childhood and Family

Howard Michael Johnson, or “HoJo,” was born on November 29, 1960, in Florida. Growing up there meant he could play ball almost any time he wanted.

He grew up in a supportive family that encouraged his love for sports from the start. While there isn’t much public info about his family members, it’s clear they played a big role in his dedication to the game.

In those early years, Johnson developed into a well-rounded athlete. He pitched and hit as a kid, showing the kind of all-around talent that would later define his career.

Path to Professional Baseball

Johnson kept improving through high school, standing out as a multi-position player who caught the attention of scouts.

He started out as a pitcher but eventually shifted to a position player—a move that gave him an edge, since he understood the game from both sides. That pitching experience stuck with him and helped him later on.

Scouts noticed his switch-hitting ability, which added to his value. By the time he finished high school and played amateur ball, major league teams had started to take notice.

Joining the Detroit Tigers Organization

In 1979, Johnson’s dream took a big leap forward when the Detroit Tigers drafted him in the secondary phase of the amateur draft. That’s when his pro career really began.

The Tigers saw his potential and put him through their minor league system, letting him play all over the infield. Eventually, he settled in at third base.

Johnson didn’t rocket to the top, but he worked his way through the Tigers’ farm system, improving steadily. By 1982, he made his major league debut with the Tigers and started what would become a 14-year MLB career.

Those early years with the Tigers helped him develop the power and defensive ability that would later define his game.

Major League Baseball Debut and Rise

Howard Johnson’s arrival in MLB kicked off a 14-year career across four teams. From rookie to established vet, he kept growing and gaining confidence at the game’s highest level.

Debut with Detroit Tigers

Johnson broke into the big leagues with the Detroit Tigers in 1982. At just 21, he made his first appearance after climbing the minor league ladder. His rookie season didn’t make headlines, but he showed enough promise as he adjusted to major league pitching.

Detroit didn’t give him a ton of playing time at first. He mostly filled in as a utility infielder, not as a starter. Still, he flashed that power and speed combo that would later become his calling card.

The high point of his Tigers stint came in 1984, when he helped Detroit win the World Series. He wasn’t a star yet, but playing alongside guys like Alan Trammell and Lou Whitaker gave him valuable experience.

Trade to New York Mets

Johnson’s career took a big turn in December 1984, when the Tigers traded him to the New York Mets. At the time, the deal didn’t get much attention, but it turned out to be a great move for the Mets.

He joined a Mets team that was building toward a championship. Johnson didn’t step into a starring role right away, but he started getting more consistent playing time in New York.

The change seemed to do him good. The Mets’ coaches tweaked his approach at the plate and in the field, and by 1986, he became a key contributor to their World Series team.

First Impressions and Early Years

Johnson’s first couple of seasons with the Mets showed steady progress. He played all over the infield, mainly at third base and shortstop, and that flexibility made him more valuable.

As a switch-hitter, he started to show more power. His home run totals climbed each year, and teammates and coaches often mentioned his work ethic.

By 1987, Johnson had become a crucial part of the Mets’ lineup. He hit 36 home runs that year—a clear sign he was turning into a serious power threat. Not many players in that era could match his mix of power and speed.

Prime Years with the New York Mets

Johnson hit his stride with the Mets, cementing his reputation as one of the most versatile and powerful infielders of his day. His switch-hitting and that rare power-speed combo made him a staple of the Mets’ success in the late ‘80s.

Breakout Seasons and Career Highs

Fans called him “HoJo,” and he really broke out after joining the Mets in 1985. In 1987, he exploded for 36 home runs and 32 steals, becoming one of the league’s top offensive threats.

His best season might have been 1989, when he led the National League with 36 home runs and drove in 101 runs. He didn’t just hit homers—he was always near the top in extra base hits, too.

People recognized him by his open batting stance and high bat position. Hitting from both sides made him a nightmare for pitchers and a key part of the Mets’ lineup.

During his prime, Johnson topped 30 home runs three times (1987, 1989, 1991), showing he wasn’t just a one-year wonder.

Key Role in the 1986 World Series

Johnson didn’t start regularly in 1986, but he played a vital role in the Mets’ championship run. He appeared in five World Series games against the Red Sox, including the wild Game 6.

His ability to play multiple positions and hit from both sides gave manager Davey Johnson a lot of options. HoJo’s experience from winning a World Series with Detroit in 1984 also gave the Mets some much-needed championship experience.

He became one of the few players of that era with multiple World Series rings, and that 1986 title cemented his spot in Mets history.

Membership in the 30-30 Club

Johnson joined the exclusive 30-30 club (30+ home runs, 30+ stolen bases) three times with the Mets. He first pulled it off in 1987 with 36 homers and 32 steals.

He did it again in 1989 (36 HR, 41 SB) and once more in 1991 (38 HR, 30 SB), making him only the second player in MLB history to hit the 30-30 mark three times. That mix of power and speed really set him apart.

In 1991, his 38 home runs tied the Mets’ single-season record at the time. Opponents often underestimated his speed, expecting a power hitter to be slower on the bases.

What made Johnson’s 30-30 seasons even more impressive was his consistency. Plenty of guys had one big year, but HoJo kept putting up those numbers season after season.

All-Star Selections and Awards

Johnson earned two All-Star nods (1989, 1991) as a Met, representing them at the Midsummer Classic. His 1989 selection came after a fantastic first half.

He picked up two Silver Slugger Awards (1989, 1991), which recognized him as one of the league’s best offensive third basemen.

In both 1989 and 1991, he finished fifth in NL MVP voting, years when he posted some of the best numbers in baseball. Fans loved him at Shea Stadium, not just for his stats but for his clutch hitting when it mattered most.

By the end of his Mets career in 1993, Johnson ranked third on the Mets’ all-time lists in several offensive categories. His impact on the franchise is still felt.

Offensive Achievements and Records

Howard Johnson became one of the most dangerous offensive players in the game, especially during his Mets years. That rare combo of power and speed made him stand out during the late ‘80s and early ‘90s.

Home Runs and Power Hitting

Power hitting really became Johnson’s trademark. He joined the 30-30 club (30+ home runs and 30+ stolen bases) three times (1987, 1989, 1991), something only a handful of players have done.

His best power year came in 1991, when he hit 38 homers, leading the National League. He’d already led the league in 1989 with 36.

Switch-hitting made him even more dangerous, since he could go deep from either side. Between 1987 and 1991, he averaged 30 home runs a season.

He wasn’t just about homers, either. Johnson led the league in doubles in 1989 and posted high slugging percentages year after year.

RBI and Run Production

Johnson drove in runs at an elite level. In 1991, he knocked in 117 RBIs—a career high that put him among the best run producers.

His 1989 season also stood out, with 99 RBIs and 104 runs scored. That all-around production made him invaluable.

From 1987 to 1991, he averaged 90 RBIs a year, anchoring the middle of the Mets’ lineup. His power and speed kept creating scoring chances.

He also drew plenty of walks, boosting his on-base percentage and making him more than just a power hitter.

All-Time Franchise Rankings

Johnson stands out among the Mets’ all-time leaders in several offensive categories. He’s third in franchise history for home runs during his Mets years, behind only Darryl Strawberry and David Wright.

When it comes to RBIs, Johnson sits in the top five in Mets history from his era—he just kept driving in runs season after season. That mix of power and speed? It still means a lot for the franchise.

With 192 home runs as a Met, Johnson really carved out a spot among the team’s elite power hitters. You’ll find his name all over the franchise record books for:

• Home runs: 3rd in team history
• Extra-base hits: Top 5 in team history
• Stolen bases: Top 10
• Total bases: Top 5 in franchise history

His 1991 season still stands out as one of the best by any Mets hitter.

Versatility and Defensive Roles

Howard Johnson showed a ton of versatility throughout his career, moving between positions as the team needed. That flexibility made him a valuable utility guy who could help out pretty much anywhere on the field.

Infield Positions

He mainly played third base, which is where most people remember him. With the Mets, he switched over to shortstop when the situation called for it. That infield flexibility really paid off, especially during the 1986 championship run.

Johnson didn’t win Gold Gloves or anything, but he worked his way into being a steady enough defender. He made up for any defensive shortcomings with his bat, and his strong arm and quick reactions helped him out at third.

Back in Detroit and later with the Mets, coaches often talked about how hard he worked on his defense. Johnson regularly took extra infield practice to sharpen his footwork and glove work.

Outfield Stints

Later on, Johnson showed even more flexibility by moving to the outfield. This happened mostly during his later Mets years, when the team wanted to keep his bat in the lineup but needed to move pieces around.

He played both left and center field, which isn’t easy for a natural infielder. His outfield experience paid off again when he joined the Colorado Rockies in 1994—their huge outfield really needed guys who could cover ground.

The Mets’ front office liked that he changed positions without making a fuss. Johnson once said, “I’ll play wherever they need me as long as I’m in the lineup.”

That defensive flexibility definitely helped him stick around, especially when he bounced between teams in his final seasons with the Rockies and Cubs. Teams looking for a veteran who could still hit and fill different roles found Johnson pretty appealing.

Memorable Games and Rivalries

Howard Johnson gave fans plenty to remember with his clutch performances against big rivals. He always seemed to rise to the moment, which made him a fan favorite and a tough opponent.

Contributions Against Rival Teams

He really shined against NL East rivals while with the New York Mets. Johnson built a reputation as a consistent performer against the St. Louis Cardinals, often coming through with key hits in crucial divisional games.

In 1988, Johnson hit .315 with 7 homers against the Cardinals, helping the Mets stay in the division race. That year, he showed he could handle the pressure.

Fans called him HoJo, and he also played well against the San Francisco Giants. In 1989, he hit 4 home runs in just 12 games against them—a reminder of his power.

Performance at Wrigley Field

Johnson always seemed to play well at Wrigley Field. Something about the Chicago ballpark brought out his best, especially during those sunny day games.

He hit .276 at Wrigley, with 11 home runs and 37 RBIs in 58 games. Clearly, he felt comfortable there.

One game that stands out: June 13, 1991. Johnson went 3-for-4 with 2 home runs and 5 RBIs, leading the Mets to a win over the Cubs.

Even when he joined the Cubs for his last season in 1995, Johnson kept hitting at Wrigley. His numbers were down overall, but he still managed a .263 average at home that year.

Key Matchups with Pittsburgh Pirates and Chicago Cubs

Johnson had some memorable battles with the Pittsburgh Pirates in the early ‘90s, especially during those tense NL East races. The Pirates won three straight division titles, but Johnson still put up steady numbers against their tough pitching.

Against the Cubs, he posted a .277 career average with 23 home runs. In 1987, he homered in three straight games against Chicago at Shea Stadium—a pretty impressive stretch.

When he wrapped up his career with the Cubs in 1995, his production had dropped, but the team still valued his veteran presence in the clubhouse.

Teammates and Influences

Howard Johnson’s career was shaped by the people around him—teammates, coaches, and mentors. The camaraderie in the clubhouse, especially during his Mets years, had a real impact on his game.

Playing Alongside Darryl Strawberry

Darryl Strawberry and Johnson made quite the offensive duo for the Mets in the late ‘80s. Strawberry’s left-handed power paired perfectly with Johnson’s switch-hitting, and pitchers definitely didn’t enjoy facing both. They pushed each other to reach new heights, with both notching 30-30 seasons (30+ homers and 30+ steals) as teammates.

“Darryl was incredible to watch,” Johnson said. “His natural ability made everyone around him better.”

Their friendly rivalry boosted the team’s offense, especially in 1988 when the Mets won 100 games. Johnson credits Strawberry with helping him develop a better left-handed swing.

Off the field, their friendship kept them grounded through the ups and downs of playing in New York.

Impact of Keith Hernandez and Rusty Staub

Keith Hernandez gave Johnson some of the best advice of his career, especially about plate discipline and approach. As captain, Hernandez taught Johnson to think like a pro hitter and to read pitchers’ patterns. That guidance helped Johnson transform from a utility player into an All-Star.

“Keith showed me how to think like a professional hitter,” Johnson said. “He could predict what pitchers would throw before they even knew.”

Rusty Staub, or “Le Grand Orange,” was a veteran pinch-hitter during Johnson’s early Mets days. Staub’s attention to detail in his pre-game routine and batting practice rubbed off on Johnson.

Johnson started studying pitchers as carefully as Staub did, looking for patterns and weaknesses. That extra prep made a difference at the plate.

Guidance from Managers and Coaches

Bud Harrelson played a big part in Johnson’s growth at third base. As infield coach and later manager, Harrelson worked closely with Johnson on footwork and throwing.

“Buddy would have me taking hundreds of ground balls every day,” Johnson remembered. “He wouldn’t let me leave until my technique was perfect.”

Manager Davey Johnson also had a major influence. He trusted Howard Johnson in big moments, giving him more playing time and a chance to prove himself.

After retiring in 1995, Howard Johnson returned to the Mets as a hitting coach, passing on what he’d learned to the next generation.

Later Career and Final Seasons

Howard Johnson’s career wound down with some big transitions after his Mets days. As injuries piled up and his numbers dipped, he found himself bouncing between teams.

Transition to Colorado Rockies

After eight strong seasons with the Mets, Johnson joined the Colorado Rockies in 1994. The Rockies were only in their second year, so it was a fresh start for him after things slowed down in New York.

Coors Field, with its high altitude, seemed like a dream for a power hitter, but Johnson’s time in Colorado didn’t go as planned. He played 93 games, hit .211, and finished with 10 home runs and 33 RBIs.

The 1994 players’ strike cut his season short in August, wiping out the rest of the year and the World Series.

Time with the Chicago Cubs and Texas Rangers

Johnson signed with the Chicago Cubs for 1995, his last stop in the majors. His role shrank a lot compared to his Mets days; he played just 81 games, mostly as a utility guy.

He hit .195 with 7 home runs and 24 RBIs for Chicago—a pretty clear sign his offensive days were winding down.

He’s sometimes listed as a Texas Ranger, but Johnson never actually played in a regular-season game for them. He went to spring training with Texas but didn’t make the roster.

Performance and Injuries

Injuries really caught up with Johnson in his final seasons. During his Mets peak in 1989 and 1991, he won Silver Slugger awards and made the All-Star team, but nagging problems cut into his playing time and effectiveness later on.

He dealt with various physical issues, which made it tough to keep up the power and consistency that defined his best years.

As he got older, his range in the field dropped off, too. He used to move between infield and outfield spots, but by the end, he was more limited.

After 1995, Johnson retired from playing and turned to coaching, where he later served as a hitting coach for teams like the Mets.

Retirement and Legacy

Howard Johnson’s baseball career wrapped up in 1995, closing out a run that included major contributions to the Mets. He left the game as a player who mixed power and speed in a way not many others did during that era.

Retiring After the 1995 Season

Johnson, or “HoJo” to just about everyone, finished up with the Cubs in 1995. After his prime with the Mets, he had short stints with the Rockies and Cubs before calling it quits.

He tried a comeback with the Mets in spring training 1997, but the team let him go. After that, he officially retired as a Met, the place where he’d had his best years.

He walked away after 14 seasons, leaving a legacy as one of the notable players of his time.

Recognition and Franchise Honors

Johnson never made it to the Hall of Fame, but he picked up plenty of accolades along the way. He was a two-time All-Star (1989, 1991) and snagged two World Series rings—one with the Detroit Tigers in 1984, and another with the Mets in 1986.

His name pops up often in Mets franchise history. Some of his highlights:

• Joined the Mets’ 20-20 club (home runs and stolen bases)
• Led the National League in home runs and RBIs in 1991
• Became one of the rare MLB players with multiple 30-30 seasons

The Mets have invited Johnson back for alumni events over the years. Fans loved his switch-hitting power and speed, especially during those wild, competitive years in the late ’80s.

Impact on the Game of Baseball

Johnson really captured the changing vibe of baseball in the 1990s era. He played third base, but he could hit for power, steal bases, and move around the field. Teams started to crave that kind of versatility.

Those 30-30 seasons—30+ homers and 30+ steals—weren’t common. Johnson showed that guys at third base or even up the middle could bring serious offense, not just defense.

After he retired, Johnson jumped into coaching and managing in the minors. He passed on his baseball smarts to younger players, working with several organizations.

Teams started looking at multi-dimensional players differently, especially at spots like third base and shortstop, partly because of the way Johnson played.

Coaching and Post-Playing Career

When Johnson hung up his cleats in 1995, he didn’t step far from the game. He moved right into coaching, still finding ways to leave his mark on baseball.

Role as First-Base Coach

Johnson got started coaching not long after retiring, taking on all sorts of roles in the sport. His most notable run came with the New York Mets, where he worked as first-base coach and later as hitting coach. It just made sense—he’d had his best years with the Mets as a player.

From 2007 to 2010, Johnson coached the Mets, working with both veterans and up-and-coming talent. He really understood hitting mechanics, and that made him a huge asset for developing hitters.

After the 2013 season, Johnson took his hitting expertise to the Seattle Mariners, helping out a new crop of players.

Mentoring the Next Generation

Fans called him “HoJo,” and he threw himself into player development. He didn’t just teach mechanics—he also helped young players handle the mental side of baseball.

Because he’d been a power-speed guy himself, prospects actually listened when he talked about hitting. He liked to focus on the mental game as much as the physical tweaks.

Johnson spent time managing in the minors too, including with the Tampa Bay organization. He got to work with prospects while they were still figuring things out.

His coaching style felt a lot like his playing days: disciplined but not afraid to take risks. Plenty of players have said Johnson helped them develop a steadier approach at the plate and a better mindset overall.

Career Accolades and Rankings

Howard Johnson’s MLB career was full of awards and impressive rankings. He stood out for his rare mix of power and speed, earning a bunch of distinctions during his time in the majors.

MVP Voting and Second Place Finishes

Johnson picked up MVP votes in several seasons, with his best finish coming in 1989—fifth in National League MVP voting. That year, “HoJo” put up big numbers for the Mets, showing off that unusual blend of power and speed.

He finished seventh in MVP voting in 1991 after another standout season. Johnson’s regular appearances in MVP conversations showed just how crucial he was to the Mets lineup during those competitive years in the late ’80s and early ’90s.

He came close to leading the league in a few major stats, often finishing second in various offensive categories.

National League Honors

Johnson picked up two All-Star selections during his National League days. He made his first All-Star appearance in 1989, which just happened to line up with one of his best seasons. Then, in 1991, he snagged another All-Star nod.

On top of that, Johnson grabbed two World Series championships during his career—first with the Detroit Tigers in 1984, and then again with the unforgettable 1986 New York Mets.

He also took home the Silver Slugger Award twice, in 1989 and 1991, showing off his skills as one of the top offensive players at his position in the National League. Honestly, these honors really helped build his reputation as one of the most productive switch-hitters of his era.