Franco (22), the present and future of the Tampa Bay Rays, which has the highest win rate in the major leagues, is rapidly emerging as a rival to Shohei Ohtani (29).
Franco recorded a batting average of 0.310, 7 homers, 23 RBIs, 23 points, 45 hits, and an on-base percentage of 0.369 OPS of 0.920 in 36 games of the season until the 11th (Korean time). 11 stolen bases here.
In addition, Franco’s FWAR is 2.3, which ranks second overall in the major leagues behind Jack Gallon (28). This is the American League leader, higher than Ohtani.메이저놀이터
In particular, Franco is averaging 158 at wRC+ despite being a shortstop. As a shortstop, he is continuing his top-notch performance in offense.
In addition, Franco is showing excellent results not only in offense but also in defense and running. It is proving that the evaluation of the best 5-tool player in the major leagues is not an exaggeration.
Tampa Bay’s team performance is added to this. As a result, Franco is rapidly emerging as a strong American League MVP candidate at the beginning of the season.
In fact, Franco took second place behind Ohtani in the recent MVP mock vote. If Franco’s performance continues, this ranking may change.
Earlier, Franco signed an 11-year, $182 million contract with Tampa Bay after completing the 2021 season. Up to 12 years – $223 million.
Wander Franco. Photo = Getty Images Korea
It was very shocking because it was a contract that came out after the first season in the major leagues. Since then, Franco has not lived up to Tampa Bay’s expectations last year
Not only did he appear in only 83 games due to injury, but his performance was also not very good, with a batting average of 0.277 with 6 home runs and an on-base percentage of 0.328 with an OPS of 0.746.
But Franco is proving himself why he is rated as a top five-tool player and why he signed an 11-year contract after his rookie season.