Wander Franco Continues to Showcase His Superstardom in Durham

NORFOLK VA – Wander Franco racked up another muli-hit game in the Durham Bulls (25-13) 10-6 loss to the Norfolk Tides (15-21) on Thursday evening. It marked his third consecutive game recording at least two hits, and he is making his presence known at the Triple-A level. Realistically Franco could hit in the Rays lineup tomorrow and be productive if he had to, but Tampa Bay will remain patient and cautious with their number one overall prospect.

On Thursday, the 20-year old phenom went 2 for 5 with two singles and two RBI. It was ironically just a 2-2 game going into the 7th inning, and the two clubs would combine for 12 runs the rest of the way. Franco connected on a two-RBI single to right field to knock in Tristan Gray and Nathan Lukes, extending their lead to 5-2. The advantage ultimately would not last long, as the Tides roared back to secure the victory.

In 149 at-bats with Durham, Franco is slashing .329 with seven long balls, 34 RBI, 27 runs, and five stolen bases. In the Triple-A East, he is currently ranked first in hits, first in RBI, third in runs, fourth in OPS, and fifth in batting average. The power numbers should improve, but it will take time. His seven homers rank 21st in the league. It is usually a trend for shortstops to take longer to develop the home run ball into their game. MLB stars like Fernando Tatis Jr., Francisco Lindor, and Xander Bogaerts are clear proof. They all had average power numbers in the minors and found their stride at the next level and are now arguably the three best shortstops in the entire league.

Despite the defeat, the Bulls offense has been one of the best in the league as they are ranked first in runs, second in hits, second in home runs, second in RBI, and second in batting average. Franco hitting in the two-hole on a nightly basis has a lot to do with the tremendous production the club has received from their offense in the first 38 games.

It is clear that Franco is a superstar in the making, and his incredible numbers will only get better. It is unknown when we will see him in a Rays uniform, but the Bulls will undoubtedly enjoy his presence as long as possible.