Julio Franco is not ready to retire just yet. The former major leaguer last played at the big league level in 2007 as a 48-year-old. Now 55, Franco has signed on with the Fort Worth Cats for a manager/player role.
“I’m very excited about the opportunity to play and coach in Fort Worth and reconnect with my friends, former teammates and Texas Rangers staff members,” said Franco in a team released statement. “I love Fort Worth and I’m very excited about the opportunity to work with the younger players and entertain the fans.”
In 23 seasons at the big league level Franco played for eight different teams compiling a .298/.365/.417 line with 173 home runs and 1194 RBI.
“I’m excited to have Julio as both a hitting coach and player,” Mike Marshall, current Cats’ manager said. “Our players and fans are very lucky to get this opportunity and I’m sure Julio will make an immediate impact on the players and the community.”
