July 7, 2005.
This was the day that much hyped rookie Jeffrey Branden Francoeur made his major league debut. This was the day that many Braves fans had circled on their calendar, when Francoeur was drafted by the Braves in the first round of the 2002 MLB draft. Much was expected of this young man after being a two sport star (he actually was offered a football scholarship to Clemson) while at Parkview High School in Lilburn, Georgia.
This was the day that “Frenchy” hit a three run home run in the 8th inning to knock off the Chicago Cubs. The following months were what you would call the honeymoon period. He appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated. He got a lucrative endorsement deal with Delta Air Lines. Everything was just “peachy” for the homegrown Georgia kid.
But, following a productive 2007 season in which he won his first Gold Glove, things begin to turn in the wrong direction. Frenchy, known for the first two+ years of his career for having little patience at the plate, failed to show any improvement in that regard as his career progressed. He continued to be a first pitch hitter, with very little success, and with waning support from Braves fans. He even made a quick trip to AA Mississippi to work with Phillip Wellman, who is known throughout the Braves organization as being a terrific manager, even though most folks across the country know him for this.
The special training sessions didn’t work. He finished the year with 11 home runs and a .239 batting average. What really ruffled the feathers of some fans, especially Loyal Homer, was that he was requesting more money in arbitration than the Braves were willing to offer. An agreement was eventually reached; but, perhaps some bridges were damaged, if not completely burned by his actions during that time.
This season hasn’t gotten off to a great start, either – despite spending much of the winter with, Texas Rangers hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo.
But, Braves fans continue to ask – is this the year Frenchy will turn the corner?
Do you want the one or two word answer? I’ll just leave it at this… NO! He entered play Thursday hitting .253 with ten total extra base hits (3 home runs, 5 doubles, and two triples). This isn’t going to get it done folks!
The time has come to pursue trading him, and Kansas City seems like an obvious fit. Word is they are interested. Kansas City’s general manager, Dayton Moore, used to work in the Braves organization and maintains a close relationship with Francoeur. Boston has also expressed interest, which may also be a good fit since he has always publicly shared an appreciation for the Red Sox.
The Braves would have acquire another outfielder to replace Francoeur (somehow). And, a trade wouldn’t be popular with the ladies, many of whom come to games just to see Jeff and teammate Brian McCann in action. But, it is the move that needs to be made. It is best for all parties to move on!
While I truly think Francoeur is a nice guy, being a nice guy doesn’t put runs up on the scoreboard. Runs are what the Braves need right now, not nice guys!
You might be right but what about getting a new hitting coach? We see Chipper Jones, Francoeur, and even Andruw Jones go to work with some Texas hitting coach to get there swing right. It makes me ask- How is Terry Pendelton earning his pay check? What is his value to the Braves? The team as a whole really isn’t hitting that well, so does some fault lie with Pendelton?
Bill,
Thanks for your feedback. We appreciate it! Glad to know we have a reader up in Sandy Springs. Nice area up there!
I do believe some fault lies with TP. I thought it was a little strange to see Jeff spend so much time with Rudy Jamarillo (Texas hitting coach) over the winter. As you mentioned, Andruw Jones also has. Jeff certainly hasn’t met expectations under the guidance of TP, but like you said, TP never feels any heat for the most part. The Braves entered last night 13th in the league in runs and that is unacceptable, though let’s face it. It’s not like the Braves lineup is full of home run threats.
Perhaps the organization feels some loyalty towards Pendelton for all he did for the team back in the 90′s. And you know what the scary thing is Bill? Guess who is at the top of the list of potential replacement for Bobby Cox once he retires? You guessed it! Terry Pendelton
Terry Pendleton sucks!!! Fire him Please!!! Hire Wade Boggs or Tony Gwynn or Chipper’s Dad, or Brian McCann’s Dad. If Terry Pendleton becomes head coach, I will never watch another Braves game.
There’s no doubt that TP has taken some heat. Some fair, some unfair. But let’s get in mind he really doesn’t have a bona fide slugger on this year’s team!