Franco Promoted to Double-A Reading

The same day he was named in FanGraphs’ “Fringe Five” of prospects to watch, third baseman Maikel Franco was promoted to Double-A Reading. Franco, who turns 21 in August, was a Florida State League All-Star for the Clearwater Threshers this year, hitting .299/.347/.576 with a Phillies system-leading 16 HR with 42 runs, and 52 RBIs.

The news was first reported by Mitch Rupert below:

Former @crosscutters third baseman Maikel Franco has been promoted to AA, Franco hitting .299 with 16 HRs and 52 RBIs at Clearwater

— Mitch Rupert (@Mitch_Rupert) June 19, 2013

Update, 5:22: Crosscutters manager Chris Truby told our own Jay Floyd this about Franco today:

“Maikel has worked his tail off and improved his game in all areas. At the plate he has a better idea of the strike zone and is able to do impressive damage when he gets a pitch to hit. He is using the whole field and driving the ball to all fields. On defense he is just as impressive. He can make all the plays. He works extremely hard and is very motivated to reach the highest level. He is just an impressive all around talent that has the desire to get better.”