Wander Franco Receives MLB Call-Up From Rays

TAMPA BAY FL – Wander Franco, the MLB’s top-ranked prospect, has officially been notified by the Tampa Bay Rays that they will be promoting him to the big leagues according to Marc Topkin. Franco went 0 for 4 in the Durham Bulls (28-13) 6-5 victory over the Norfolk Tides (15-24) on Sunday afternoon, but it did not prevent the Rays from giving him the best news of his career. In Durham, Franco slashed for a .315 batting average, seven home runs, 35 RBI, 30 runs, and five stolen bases.

Franco has been the talk of the early stages of the season, and it was just a matter of when the Rays would pull the trigger on the 20-year-old. It seemed more likely that the club would wait until after the All-Star break rather than rush the process, but after losing their sixth straight game on Sunday, the Rays wasted no time. He should undoubtedly get his chance right from the start to be the everyday shortstop, potentially taking time away from Taylor Walls and Joey Wendle. Franco has arguably been one of the most hyped-up prospects in the last handful of years, and the world will finally get to witness his talents on the biggest stage there is.

As for the Durham Bulls, it is unfortunate that their lineup is losing such a dangerous presence, but they are certainly happy for Franco and his terrific achievement. He is expected to make his MLB debut on Tuesday, June 22nd, when the Rays take on the Boston Red Sox at Tropicana Field.