Last night in the MLB, the big news came from the side of Tampa Bay, as Wander Franco was finally called up in the Majors. The young Rays infielder, who is considered baseball’s best prospect since 2019, will finally have the chance to show off at the highest level.
Take a moment to watch his AAA teammates congratulate him on his promotion.
Moreover, for those interested, know that he will wear # 5.
It is obviously necessary to temper the expectations towards him. After all, the kid has never played in the Majors, and even though he dominated the minor leagues, there will be an adjustment period.
Think Jarred Kelenic at the Mariners, who was fired at AAA after a rough start.
Still, it’s an exciting event. He becomes baseball’s first # 1 prospect to graduate since Vladimir Guerrero Jr. And if Franco follows in the footsteps of his predecessors, that promises!
But like I said, it might take a while. He may have flown over the minor leagues, but he will nonetheless be the youngest player in the Majors when he makes his debut.
And at the same time, he will be the very first player in MLB history born in 2001.
To all those who are just getting old, my apologies.
Moreover, know that Franco was born (March 1, 2001) only 33 days before Albert Pujols played a first match in the Majors (April 2, 2001).
It is downright a shock of the generations.
The Rays need help as they are currently in the midst of a six-game losing streak. Will the young phenomenon who has just blown 20 candles will breathe new life into them? That remains to be seen.
We have seen young players dominate as soon as they arrive (Juan Soto), others take one or two seasons to adapt (Vladimir Guerrero Jr.) and others take several years before reaching their full potential (Byron Buxton ).
In which category will Franco fall? The Rays are hoping it will be the first, and I believe he has what it takes to make it happen. Often it’s the power hitters who take longer, and Franco is a much more complete player.
But if it takes him a few months or even a few years, that’s okay. Franco is a special player and, at his age, he will have time to give us great things for many years to come.
- You should also know that Franco, despite his young age, has a child who will be three years old this year. Will the stars line up to allow them to play together in MLB? The answer in over 15 years!
- The Yankees are in a good streak.
- Here are the players of the week in MLB.
