Happy Birthday, JJ!

Josh Johnson’s career with the Marlins was one memorable to a lot of fans. The joy he brought to all of us when he stepped foot on the mound was amazing. You could feel the atmosphere turn electric when he pitched.

From his illustrious fastball to his long pitching stride, JJ was the one we looked forward to seeing pitch for years on end.

Over his eight-year career with the Fish, Johnson posted a W/L record of 56-37, an ERA of 3.15 while striking out 832 batters in 916.2 IP.

JJ was a two-time MLB All-Star during the 2009 and 2010 seasons.

Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

Johnson’s 6-foot-7 stature made him a menace on the mound, and his blazing fastball only put more fear into the opposition.

Here is one of his best outings, where he matched a career high with 12 strikeouts against the Braves in 2010:

After his tenure with the Marlins, Johnson was traded to the Toronto Blue Jays in 2012. He had a rough 2013 season with the Jays, bedeviled by injuries.

He then signed a one-year deal with the San Diego Padres during the 2013-2014 offseason, but was never able to play a Major League game for them as he had to get a second Tommy John surgery.

JJ retired on January 19, 2017 after a long attempt at an MLB return.

As one of the greatest all-time Marlins, Johnson is remembered amongst fans as a remarkable player and person. From fan favorite to one of MLB’s best, JJ’s career will be etched in Marlins history.