For his pro baseball career, Franco has hit 22 baseballs over the fence while driving in 117 runs. Over the course of his pro career, he stepped up to bat 1,113 times and got on base with a base hit 261 times. He has compiled a slugging percentage of .055 and he has accumulated 382 bases. He has gone down on strikes 158 times and earned a walk on 124 at-bats, which has contributed to a .349 on-base percentage. Franco has accrued an average at the plate of .267 for his baseball career with 110 runs scored and an OPS of .404.
Matt Franco
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When discussing memorable baseball players, Matt Franco might not be the first name that comes to mind, but his career in Major League Baseball (MLB) is certainly worth exploring. Known for his role as a reliable hitter, Matt Franco carved out a niche for himself in the baseball world. In this article, we’ll delve into the life and career of Matt Franco, exploring his journey through the MLB, his statistics, and his lasting impact on the game.
Early Life and Introduction to Baseball
Matthew Neil Franco was born on August 19, 1969, in Santa Monica, California. Baseball was in his blood, as he was the nephew of major leaguer Tony Franco and former MLB catcher and manager, Tommy Lasorda. Growing up in a baseball-centric family, it was no surprise that Matt developed a passion for the game early on.
Franco attended Westlake High School in Westlake Village, California, where he honed his skills on the baseball field. His talent was evident, and it wasn’t long before he attracted the attention of scouts. After high school, he was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the seventh round of the 1987 MLB Draft.
Professional Career
Chicago Cubs
Matt Franco began his professional baseball career with the Chicago Cubs. Over the next several years, he worked his way up through the minor leagues, demonstrating his skills as a versatile infielder and consistent hitter. He made his MLB debut with the Cubs on July 9, 1995, against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Although his time with the Cubs was relatively short, it marked the beginning of his journey in the major leagues.
New York Mets
Franco’s most notable tenure in the MLB came with the New York Mets. He joined the team in 1996 and quickly became known for his clutch hitting and ability to perform under pressure. One of the standout moments of his career came on July 10, 1999, when he delivered a game-winning pinch-hit single against the New York Yankees. This hit is remembered as one of the highlights of the Subway Series.
During his time with the Mets, Franco was primarily used as a pinch hitter, a role that suited his skill set perfectly. His ability to come off the bench and deliver crucial hits made him a valuable asset to the team. From 1996 to 2000, Franco compiled a batting average of .267 with 22 home runs and 117 RBIs.
Post-Mets Career
After leaving the Mets, Franco had brief stints with the Atlanta Braves and the Milwaukee Brewers. While his time with these teams was not as impactful as his tenure with the Mets, he continued to contribute as a reliable pinch hitter and infielder.
Stats and Highlights
Matt Franco’s career may not have been defined by eye-popping statistics, but his contributions to his teams were significant. Over his MLB career, Franco played in 661 games, amassing a batting average of .267, with 22 home runs and 117 RBIs. His ability to deliver in clutch situations, particularly as a pinch hitter, made him a valuable asset to any team he played for.
Legacy and Impact
While Matt Franco may not have been a household name, his impact on the game of baseball is undeniable. His career serves as a testament to the importance of role players in the sport. Franco’s ability to come off the bench and deliver in crucial moments made him a fan favorite and a respected figure among his teammates.
Influence on Future Players
Matt Franco’s career can be seen as a source of inspiration for aspiring baseball players who may not fit the mold of a typical superstar. His dedication, work ethic, and ability to seize opportunities serve as valuable lessons for young athletes. Franco’s journey reminds us that success in baseball is not solely measured by home runs and RBIs but also by the ability to contribute to a team’s success in various ways.
Post-Baseball Life
After retiring from professional baseball, Matt Franco pursued a variety of interests. He remained connected to the sport through coaching and mentoring young players, sharing his knowledge and experience. Additionally, Franco has been involved in charitable endeavors, using his platform to give back to the community.
Conclusion
Matt Franco’s career as an MLB baseball hitter may not have been defined by Hall of Fame statistics, but his impact on the game is undeniable. As a reliable pinch hitter and versatile infielder, Franco played an essential role in the success of the teams he was a part of. His legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of role players in baseball and the impact they can have on a team’s success.
In the world of sports, it’s easy to focus on the superstars, but players like Matt Franco remind us of the value of dedication, perseverance, and seizing opportunities. His career is a testament to the fact that success in baseball comes in many forms, and every player has a role to play in the grand tapestry of the game.