Johnson cleared to play; Maddox still day-to-day

The Florida Gators’ medical staff has cleared sophomore left-handed pitcher/designated hitter Brian Johnson (concussion) to play in the 2011 College World Series, the University of Florida announced on Thursday.

He has been sidelined since May 28 after he was hit in the back as sophomore catcher Mike Zunino tried to throw out a runner stealing second base.

Johnson will slide back into his spot in the lineup and will likely be added back to the starting pitching rotation as well. He is 8-3 with a 3.66 ERA on the mound and hitting .312 with five home runs, 27 RBI, 26 runs and 19 walks at the plate.

The news is not as positive for Gators sophomore first baseman/closer Austin Maddox, who hurt his foot while catching a pop out in foul territory on June 3. He continues to be listed as day-to-day and it is unknown if he will be able to return this season.

No. 2 Florida (50-17) opens the CWS on Saturday at 7 p.m. against No. 7 Texas.