Yes, you need to include the language file before the config file.
Don't attempt to use PHP in the JSON file--just set the string:
{
"version": "1.0.0",
"name": "MyPlugin.name",
"description": "A plugin like no other!",
"authors": [
{
"name": "Phillips Data, Inc.",
"url": "http://www.blesta.com"
}
]
}
Your language file:
<?php
$lang['MyPlugin.name'] = "My Plugin's Name";
?>