John Franco – New York Mets Legend Celebrates 25 Years Since Record-Breaking Season
John Franco, a Brooklyn native, became one of the most beloved figures in New York Mets history during his remarkable 14-season tenure with the team. After establishing himself as an All-Star closer with the Cincinnati Reds, Franco returned to his hometown in 1990, beginning what would become the cornerstone of his 21-year MLB career. His 276 saves for the Mets still stands as the franchise record, while his 424 career saves ranks fifth all-time in MLB history and first among left-handed pitchers.
Franco’s journey to Mets stardom began far from the bright lights of Shea Stadium. Growing up as a rabid Mets fan, he developed his pitching skills at Lafayette High School before becoming a standout at St. John’s University.
The Los Angeles Dodgers selected him in the fifth round of the 1981 draft, but it was with the Reds where he first flourished, before the four-time All-Star eventually landed with his childhood team.
What separated Franco from other closers wasn’t overwhelming velocity but pinpoint control and a devastating changeup that kept hitters off-balance. He wore number 31 for most of his Mets career before famously switching to number 45 in 2001 to honor his father, a New York City sanitation worker. Despite playing during a challenging era for the organization, Franco’s consistency, durability, and connection to the city made him a fan favorite and eventually led to his induction into the Mets Hall of Fame.
Contents
Early Life and Career
John Franco’s journey to MLB stardom began in the streets of Brooklyn and flourished through his college years before he made his professional debut with the Cincinnati Reds after being drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Hometown Roots and Education
Born on September 17, 1960, in Brooklyn, New York, John Franco grew up as a devoted New York Mets fan in the Gravesend neighborhood. His Brooklyn upbringing shaped his gritty, determined approach to baseball.
Franco attended Lafayette High School, the same institution that produced MLB legend Sandy Koufax, another left-handed pitching marvel. The school’s rich baseball tradition provided an ideal foundation for Franco’s development as a southpaw pitcher.
After high school, Franco took his talents to St. John’s University, where he became one of the university’s standout hurlers. His collegiate performance caught the attention of MLB scouts, setting the stage for his professional career.
Draft and Initial MLB Years
In 1981, Franco was selected by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the fifth round (125th overall pick) of the MLB Draft. Despite being drafted by the Dodgers, Franco never pitched for the organization at the major league level.
His MLB debut came on April 24, 1984, but with the Cincinnati Reds, not the Dodgers. Franco had been traded to Cincinnati where he would begin to establish himself as a reliable left-handed reliever.
During his six seasons with the Reds (1984-1989), Franco developed the skills and reputation that would later make him a household name in New York. His time in Cincinnati was crucial for his development, as he refined his pitching arsenal and mental approach to the game.
| Franco’s Early MLB Stats with Cincinnati | |
|---|---|
| Seasons | 6 |
| Saves | 148 |
| ERA | 2.49 |
| All-Star Appearances | 3 |
Rise to Fame with the Mets
John Franco’s journey with the New York Mets transformed him from a solid reliever into a franchise icon and one of baseball’s premier closers. His remarkable consistency, leadership, and clutch performances endeared him to fans across the team’s most memorable era.
Trade to New York Mets
The Mets acquired the Brooklyn-born Franco in a December 1989 trade with the Cincinnati Reds, sending Randy Myers and Kip Gross to Cincinnati. The homecoming for Franco couldn’t have been scripted better – a local kid returning to play for his hometown team.
In his first season with the Mets in 1990, Franco immediately established himself as a reliable closer, recording 33 saves with a solid 2.53 ERA. The left-hander brought something special to the bullpen that the Mets desperately needed: consistency in high-pressure situations.
His initial contract with the Mets was worth approximately $12.6 million over four years – significant money for a reliever at that time.
Becoming a Mets Icon
Franco’s dependability and leadership earned him rare honors. In 2001, he became the first Mets pitcher ever named team captain, joining only a handful of position players who had held that distinction.
Franco appeared in 695 regular season games for the Mets, setting a franchise record that still stands today. His longevity with the team spanned 14 seasons (1990-2004), making him one of the most enduring Mets players ever.
The four-time All-Star embraced New York’s pressure-cooker environment. Despite not having overpowering velocity, Franco’s devastating changeup and competitive fire made him one of the game’s most effective relievers.
Record-Setting Performances
Franco’s accomplishments with the Mets include numerous records and milestones. He recorded 276 saves with the Mets, a franchise record that still stands. Overall, Franco amassed 424 career saves, which ranked second all-time when he retired in 2005.
| Category | Mets Rank | MLB Rank (at retirement) |
|---|---|---|
| Saves with Mets | 276 (1st) | – |
| Games Pitched | 695 (1st) | – |
| Career Saves | 424 | 2nd all-time |
| Seasons with Mets | 14 | – |
Franco’s most impressive season came in 1998 when he posted a 0.87 ERA over 36 appearances. His performance in the 2000 playoff run helped the Mets reach the World Series, including a crucial save in Game 2 of the NLDS against San Francisco.
After his distinguished Mets career, Franco was elected to the Mets Hall of Fame in 2012, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest relievers in franchise history.
Legacy and Honors
John Franco’s impact on baseball extends far beyond his impressive statistics. His durability, consistency, and leadership have cemented his place as one of the greatest relief pitchers in baseball history, particularly for the New York Mets organization.
All-Star Selections and Achievements
Franco earned four All-Star selections during his illustrious career, showcasing his elite status among his peers. The Brooklyn native brought his hometown pride to the mound every time he stepped on it.
His career spanned an impressive 21 seasons, with the majority spent wearing the orange and blue of the Mets. Franco’s longevity speaks volumes about his conditioning and ability to adapt in a role known for high turnover.
As the Mets Captain from 2001-2004, Franco became only the third player in franchise history to receive this honor. His leadership extended beyond the clubhouse, as he frequently represented the team in community events throughout New York City.
Rolaids Relief Man Award and Saves Record
Franco’s dominance as a closer earned him the prestigious Rolaids Relief Man Award twice (1988, 1990), recognizing him as the National League’s top relief pitcher. These awards validated his effectiveness in high-pressure situations.
At the time of his retirement, Franco held the MLB record for saves by a left-handed pitcher with 424. This remarkable achievement stood as a testament to his consistency year after year.
| Career Saves Statistics | Total |
|---|---|
| Career Saves | 424 |
| Saves with Mets | 276 |
| Saves with Reds | 148 |
Franco’s success came without overwhelming velocity. Instead, he relied on pinpoint control and a devastating changeup that kept hitters off-balance throughout his career.
Induction into Halls of Fame
In 2012, Franco received one of his greatest honors when he was inducted into the New York Mets Hall of Fame. This recognition placed him among the franchise’s most celebrated figures.
Franco’s baseball journey began at St. John’s University, where he developed his pitching prowess. He often credits his college experience as fundamental to his professional success, saying he “truly became a pitcher at St. John’s.”
His accomplishments also earned him induction into the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame, celebrating both his athletic achievements and cultural heritage. Franco has remained connected to the game through broadcasting, coaching, and community outreach.
Post-Playing Career and Personal Life
After retiring from baseball in 2005, John Franco remained connected to the New York Mets organization while developing a robust presence in community service. His Brooklyn roots have continued to influence his charitable work and family commitments.
Community Involvement
Franco’s community service has become as notable as his pitching career. The Brooklyn native serves as a team ambassador for the Mets, making regular appearances at Citi Field during home games. His community work often brings him back to his roots, particularly through his support of New York’s Sanitation Department.
This connection isn’t random. Franco’s father was a New York City sanitation worker for over 20 years. To honor this legacy, John has participated in numerous initiatives supporting sanitation workers and their families.
His charitable work extends beyond family connections. Franco has raised significant funds for various causes, including:
- Hurricane Sandy relief efforts
- Local youth baseball programs
- Hospital fundraisers throughout New York
The former closer regularly appears at Mets fan events, maintaining his strong connection with the fanbase that cheered him for 14 seasons.
Family and Personal Interests
Franco’s family has always been central to his identity. As a proud New Yorker, he’s raised his family in the area where he grew up. His son J.J. followed in his footsteps as a pitcher, playing college baseball at Brown University before being drafted by the Mets in 2014.
Family connections run deep in Franco’s story. He’s been married to his wife Rose since the 1980s, and they’ve maintained a home in the New York area even during his playing days with the Cincinnati Reds.
During his childhood as a Mets fan, Franco developed an appreciation for the team that would later define his career. This connection came full circle when the Mets inducted him into their Hall of Fame in 2012.
Franco remains deeply invested in local sports, regularly attending St. John’s University games, his alma mater. He also enjoys fishing and golfing during his leisure time.
Career Statistics Overview
John Franco’s remarkable career with the New York Mets established him as one of baseball’s premier left-handed relievers. His consistent performance and longevity made him a cornerstone of the Mets bullpen throughout the 1990s.
Pitching Skills and Records
Franco’s 21-season career included 15 years with the Mets, where he solidified his legacy as an elite closer. His career ERA of 2.89 demonstrates his remarkable consistency on the mound. Franco was particularly effective at keeping the ball in the park and inducing ground balls.
The Brooklyn native accumulated 424 saves throughout his career, ranking seventh all-time in MLB history and remaining the most by any left-handed pitcher. His career statistics reflect his durability and effectiveness:
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Games Pitched | 1,119 |
| Innings Pitched | 1,245.2 |
| Strikeouts | 975 |
| Wins-Losses | 90-87 |
| WHIP | 1.33 |
Franco’s control was impressive for a reliever, averaging fewer than 4 walks per 9 innings across his career.
Milestone Achievements
Franco’s time with the Mets produced numerous notable achievements. He recorded 276 saves while wearing the orange and blue, making him the franchise leader in that category.
The lefty reached the 400-save milestone in 1999, becoming just the second pitcher in MLB history to achieve this mark at that time. His consistency was remarkable, posting 30+ saves in a season six times during his Mets tenure.
Franco’s excellence extended beyond regular season play. Though the Mets made limited postseason appearances during his time, he pitched in the 2000 World Series against the Yankees, allowing zero earned runs in his appearances.
Born in September 1960, Franco defied age expectations, remaining effective well into his 40s. He recorded his final save at age 42, showcasing remarkable longevity for a relief pitcher in an era before specialized bullpen roles became standard.
Influence and Impact
John Franco’s career with the New York Mets left an indelible mark on both the franchise and Major League Baseball. His consistency in the closer role and his leadership as team captain established a legacy that continues to resonate throughout baseball.
On the Mets Organization
Franco became the heart and soul of the New York Mets, representing the blue-collar ethos of the franchise. As a Brooklyn native who grew up watching the Mets at Shea Stadium, his connection with fans was uniquely authentic.
His 14 seasons with the organization (1990-2004) made him one of the longest-tenured Mets in history. Franco earned the honor of being named the team’s captain in 2001, becoming the first pitcher since Tom Seaver to hold this distinction.
The left-handed closer notched 276 saves for the Mets, a franchise record that still stands today. His durability and reliability made him a cornerstone of the bullpen during both rebuilding years and playoff runs.
| Franco’s Mets Career | Stats |
|---|---|
| Seasons | 14 |
| Saves | 276 |
| ERA | 3.10 |
| All-Star Selections | 3 |
| Games | 695 |
Role in MLB History
Franco’s impact extends well beyond the Mets organization. His 424 career saves ranked second all-time when he retired and remain fourth on the all-time list today. More impressively, his 266 saves as a left-handed pitcher stood as the MLB record until broken by Billy Wagner.
The four-time All-Star redefined what it meant to be a closer without overwhelming velocity. Franco relied on precision, deception, and his signature changeup rather than the blazing fastballs typically associated with relief aces.
His career spanned multiple eras of baseball, from the specialized relief pitcher emergence of the 1980s through the power-hitting era of the late 1990s. Franco’s longevity (21 seasons) demonstrated his remarkable ability to adapt to changing offensive environments.
Mentorship and Coaching
Franco’s influence on younger pitchers became one of his most valuable contributions. His willingness to share knowledge with developing relievers helped shape the next generation of Mets pitchers.
After retirement, Franco maintained his connection to the organization through coaching and advising roles. His understanding of the pressures faced by New York pitchers made him an ideal mentor for those navigating the demands of the city’s intense media spotlight.
Franco regularly appears at Mets events and continues promoting the team through media appearances. He has participated in team publications chronicling the franchise’s history, serving as a living link between Mets generations.
His blue-collar background resonates with his approach to mentorship, emphasizing fundamentals, mental toughness, and consistency – qualities that defined his own remarkable career.
Popularity and Cultural Impact
John Franco’s connection with New York fans extended far beyond his pitching performances. His Brooklyn roots and blue-collar work ethic made him a beloved figure throughout the city.
Fan Relationships and Influence
Franco’s status as a Brooklyn native and lifelong Mets fan before becoming a player created an authentic bond with the fanbase. He wasn’t just a player – he was one of them.
As Team Captain from 2001-2004, Franco embodied the heart and soul of the organization. His accessibility to fans, especially those from working-class neighborhoods, enhanced his popularity.
Franco’s most meaningful impact came after the September 11 attacks. The relief pitcher wore an FDNY cap during the 2001 season to honor first responders. This gesture resonated deeply with New Yorkers during a traumatic period.
At Shea Stadium and later Citi Field, Franco’s appearances from the bullpen routinely generated thunderous ovations, particularly during his 276 saves as a Met.
Appearances in Media
Franco’s prominence in New York extended to various media appearances. His distinctive Brooklyn accent and straightforward demeanor made him a natural fit for baseball broadcasts and talk shows.
He appeared in several MLB promotional campaigns during the 1990s, helping to grow the sport’s popularity in the New York market. Franco’s image was featured on numerous baseball cards, team publications, and even video games.
Following his playing career, Franco transitioned into media work, providing baseball analysis for various outlets. His continued connection with the Mets organization as an ambassador has kept him in the public eye.
Franco’s Italian heritage has also been celebrated in cultural media, including his role as pitching coach for Team Italy in international competitions.
Conclusion
John Franco’s impact on the New York Mets is undeniable. His 14 seasons with the team cemented him as one of the organization’s most dependable relievers and a true fan favorite.
Franco’s numbers tell a compelling story. He ranks first on the club’s All-Time Saves List with 274. He also posted an impressive 2.96 ERA during his Mets tenure. These aren’t just statistics – they represent moments when Franco slammed the door on opponents year after year.
The lefty’s contributions extended beyond regular season success. In 2000, Franco was instrumental in helping lead the Mets to their first World Series since 1986, facing the crosstown rival Yankees in what was dubbed the “Subway Series.”
His loyalty to the organization was evident when he signed a three-year contract for approximately $10.5 million to remain with the Mets following that 2000 World Series appearance.
Franco’s Career Mets Statistics
| Category | Total |
|---|---|
| Saves | 274 |
| ERA | 2.96 |
| Seasons | 14 |
| All-Star Selections | 3 |
The Brooklyn native’s journey from St. John’s University to Mets stardom represents one of baseball’s great hometown hero stories. His eventual induction to the Mets Hall of Fame validated what fans knew all along – Franco wasn’t just a great pitcher, but a true Mets legend.
