Player Spotlight: Frank Francisco

Analyst Written on May 22, 2009

ARLINGTON, TX - JUNE 27: Pitcher Frank Francisco #50 of the Texas Rangers throws against the Philadelphia Phillies during Interleague MLB action on June 27, 2008 at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

This year, Frank Francisco has put up monstrous numbers in the closer position. The surprising thing is how little attention he seems to be getting.

I know he plays for the Texas Rangers and has been injured, but this guy’s numbers are still crazy.

Francisco has yet to give up a single earned run en route to nine saves and one victory. He also has 13 strikeouts in almost 15 innings of work. Hitters find it equally tough to get on base against Francisco with just seven hits and four walks.

By all means, he is the captain of the bullpen for the Texas Rangers. If the Rangers need him in the ninth inning, Francisco will get the job done.

What’s even more impressive is those numbers are through five weeks into the season. Francisco has been out of action for two whole weeks.

The Rangers decided to play it safe and not to rush him back to action. Very smart move, considering the Rangers bullpen has done well over the last two weeks.

The numbers get even better.

Francisco has yet to give up a single earned run since August 18 of last year, a span of 27 games. The streak started around the time Francisco officially got the closer job.

This year, the leader in saves is Brian Fuentes with 11 saves. That’s only two more than Francisco.

Only one other closer, Trevor Hoffman, has yet to give up an earned run. He has 11 saves as well.

I can only speculate on what Francisco’s numbers might be if he were healthy the last couple weeks. I think it’s safe to say with the Rangers playing so well, Francisco would be leading the league in many categories among closers.

It’s time to start paying attention to Francisco and watch his filthy stuff, because it appears he has the stuff to be a very good closer for some time.

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written on May 22, 2009 Opinion

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