Johnson was signed by the Solons on January 15, 1889, when after the 1888 season the Kansas City team of the Western Association folded and was sold to the Kansas City team of the American Association. A dispute quickly surfaced between the two teams about Johnson and his rights. On March 19, Columbus settled the dispute by paying Kansas City $500. His best season came in 1890 when he led the Association in runs batted in with 113, while finishing in the top five in most offensive categories including his .346 batting average, 18 triples, and 186 hits.
In 381 games over three seasons, Johnson posted a .302 batting average (400-for-1324) with 246 runs, 4 home runs, 238 RBI and 93 stolen bases.
Nothing much is known of his whereabouts after he left organized baseball.

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