Background
She was born in Ridgeway, South Carolina in 1935.
She was born in Ridgeway, South Carolina in 1935.
Johnson was known as "Peanut" during her career due to her height - 5 feet, 3 inches. She is the subject of the book A Strong Right Arm, describing her life growing up and the obstacles to her becoming a professional Negro League baseball player. After retiring, she went to nursing school and became a nurse for 30 years.
On June 5, 2008, Johnson and other living players from the Negro League Era were drafted by major league franchises prior to the 2008 MLB First year Draft.
Johnson was selected by the Washington Nationals.