John Franco: The Legendary Left-Handed Relief Pitcher
A Career Marked by Unparalleled Consistency and Dominance
John Franco, the former professional baseball player, is widely regarded as one of the greatest relief pitchers in Major League Baseball history. With a staggering 1,119 career games pitched, a National League record, and 424 career saves, ranking fifth all-time in major league history, Franco's impressive statistics cement his place among the all-time greats.
Early Life and Collegiate Career
Born on September 17, 1960, in Brooklyn, New York, Franco grew up in the Gravesend section of the city, where his father, Jim Franco, a New York City Department of Sanitation worker, encouraged his son's baseball aspirations. Franco honored his father by wearing an orange Sanitation Department workshirt under his jersey. He graduated from Lafayette High School in Brooklyn and St. John's University in Queens, where he pitched two no-hitters in his freshman year. In 1980, he played collegiate summer baseball with the Cotuit Kettleers of the Cape Cod Baseball League.
The Rise to Prominence
Franco was selected by the Los Angeles Dodgers on June 8, 1981, in the 5th round of the amateur draft. Before reaching the major leagues, he was traded to the Cincinnati Reds on May 9, 1983, with Brett Wise for Rafael Landestoy. Franco debuted with the Reds on April 24, 1984, and went on to establish himself as an All-Star player, earning four All-Star selections during his six seasons with the team.
A Legendary Career with the New York Mets
Franco's most memorable years came during his 15-year tenure with the New York Mets, where he served as team captain in his final years with the team. His impressive performance earned him seven All-Star selections, and he holds the Mets' franchise record for saves with 276. Franco's dominance on the mound was matched by his leadership and charisma off the field, making him a beloved figure in Mets history.
Pitched for Three Teams, but a Legend with the Mets
In addition to his time with the Reds and Mets, Franco played for the Houston Astros in 2005, marking the final season of his 21-year career. Despite playing for three teams, Franco's legacy is inextricably tied to the New York Mets, where he spent the majority of his career.
Post-Playing Career and Legacy
Franco was inducted into the New York Mets Hall of Fame in 2012, a testament to his enduring impact on the franchise. He remains one of the greatest closers in baseball history, with his record-breaking saves and games pitched standing as a testament to his remarkable career.
Awards and Honors
- 4x All-Star selection with the Cincinnati Reds
- 7x All-Star selection with the New York Mets
- New York Mets Hall of Fame (2012)
Trivia and Fun Facts
- Franco's 424 career saves rank second all-time when he retired and remain the most by a left-hander.
- He pitched two no-hitters in his freshman year at St. John's University.
- Franco's father, Jim Franco, was a New York City Department of Sanitation worker who encouraged his son's baseball aspirations.
FAQ
What is John Francos baseball career like?
John Franco is an American baseball player who had a 21-year MLB career, pitching for teams such as the Cincinnati Reds, New York Mets, and Houston Astros.
What are John Francos career stats like?
John Franco had a successful career, recording 455 saves, a 2.89 ERA, and 975 strikeouts in 1,245.2 innings pitched, earning him four All-Star selections and a spot in the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame.
What awards did John Franco win during his playing career?
John Franco won several awards, including the Rolaids Relief Man Award and the National League Fireman of the Year Award, in addition to being named an All-Star multiple times.
How did John Franco get into baseball?
John Franco was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1981 and made his MLB debut in 1984, eventually becoming one of the most successful relief pitchers of his generation.
What has John Franco done since retiring from baseball?
Since retiring from baseball, John Franco has remained involved in the sport, serving as a special assistant to the general manager for the New York Mets and working as an analyst for MLB Network.
