Marlins Have Charles in Charge

Charles Johnson is loved by fans, admired by teammates and respected by opponents. Florida Marlin management insists the catcher has a bright future in their organization based on his character alone.

Johnson is also only 26, a two-time Gold Glove winner, a developing power hitter and the game’s best defensive catcher. Not to discount character, but talent tends to do more for one’s financial security.

The Marlins, as well as the rest of the National League, are impressed by the all-star’s package, which is expanding rapidly in all the right places. As a result, Johnson has found a home in the major leagues without having to leave home.

A Florida native who attended the University of Miami, Johnson will be back behind the plate today as the Marlins open the best-of-seven league championship series here at Turner Field. The Marlins have reached this point because of many people, but their pitchers credit a masked man the most.

“[Pitching] is a little easier, you’re always a little more comfortable when you see C.J. back there,” said Al Leiter, a veteran left-hander.

“He gives you confidence because you know how good he is. There are a lot of great players on this team, but everyone on our staff owes a lot of their success to C.J. The guy is just incredible. No matter how much you say about him, you can’t say enough.”

Leiter knows what he’s talking about, Marlin Manager Jim Leyland said.

“He was unbelievable all year,” Leyland said of his third-year catcher. “I was around him for the whole year, and to be honest with you, I almost didn’t believe some of what I saw.”

That will happen when a guy who plays the game’s toughest position doesn’t commit an error all season.

He set a record for consecutive errorless games in a season by a catcher, 123. He also holds the record for consecutive errorless games by a catcher, 171, having last committed an error June 23, 1996. Gold Glove winners won’t be announced until November, but Johnson should clear shelf space for his third award.

Johnson was second in the league at catching would-be thieves, throwing out 44.6% of the baserunners who tried to steal on him. This after leading the league in his first two seasons.

“As a catcher, you want guys to try and run on you,” Johnson said.

“You want them to test you. I don’t mind that at all. That’s fun.”

Johnson has already caught two no-hitters. And he has made big strides at the plate. He hit .250 and set personal marks with 19 home runs, 26 doubles and 63 RBIs.

In Game 1 of the division series, Johnson hit a 479-foot homer--the longest in franchise history--scored the winning run in the ninth inning and threw out a runner at second. That brought attention to Johnson, who actively avoids the spotlight.

He would much rather work at his craft than talk about how he does what he does. But when Marlin pitchers run into trouble, many eyes are focused on No. 23.

“You feel more comfortable with guys on base because C.J. throws it so well,” said rookie left-hander Tony Saunders, expected to start Game 3.

“You know if you throw a ball in the dirt, C.J. will block it. You never wonder if he will make the play. You know he will.”

But Johnson doesn’t get caught up in what he’s done, or what his future may bring. He said he can’t see past the Braves.

“I’m proud of what I’ve done but that’s not important now,” Johnson said. “The record and everything was a big thrill, but those are things you think about during the off-season.

“Right now, it’s all about the team. If you think about yourself now, you’re being selfish. Your teammates and winning, that’s what counts.”

No wonder the Marlins are mad for Johnson.

NL Playoff Notes

Marlin Manager Jim Leyland has planned his rotation so that ace right-hander Kevin Brown (16-8, 2.69 ERA) could start three times in the league championship series.

Brown was 1-0 with a 2.14 ERA in three games against the Braves this season, and is 2-2 with a 2.81 ERA in six games overall.He is scheduled to start today and in Game 4 Saturday, and he will start next Wednesday if Game 7 is necessary.

Atlanta second baseman Mark Lemke, out since Aug. 21 because of torn ankle ligaments, worked out with the team Monday. However, Manager Bobby Cox said it’s doubtful Lemke will be activated for the series.