Anderson Franco

Organization Prospect Rankings

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  Ranked Washington Nationals #28 prospect in 2018
  Franco didn't put up great numbers at low Class A Hagerstown in his first full season of pro ball, but given his health, age and the off-the-field development that he went through in 2017, the Nationals were pleased with the year he had. Franco got married and had his first child at age 20 and became one of the team's leaders, and he also played 29 games at first base for the first time in his career. The Nationals see him as a third baseman in the future, with plus arm strength that might warrant a plus-plus grade, solid footwork and good hands. Franco played first base for a spell because the Nationals wanted him in Hagerstown, which they felt was best for his offensive development. He has plus raw power, which has gotten him into trouble with swings and misses thanks to a home run-seeking approach and a swing that tends to get long. Franco hit 11 homers in 2017 despite a very poor overall season, but his walk rate jump and plus defensive actions are an encouraging sign for his development.
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  Ranked Washington Nationals #14 prospect in 2017
  Franco was one of the youngest players in the 2013 international class, and he was still 17 when he made his U.S. debut in 2015 in the Gulf Coast League. He earned a late-summer promotion to short-season Auburn, but was unable to capitalize on that momentum in 2016 as a back injury sidelined him until late July. When healthy, Franco generates good bat speed and raw power, which he should get to more consistently as he matures physically and improves his pitch recognition. In particular, he needs to learn to lay off breaking balls away, but he has shown a willingness to work a walk and has a decent offensive approach for a young player. Franco profiles well at third base. He has plus arm strength, and his range and athleticism make him a good defender at the hot corner who will be able to stay at the position. He has four tools that have a chance to be above-average, with the exception being his speed. Franco's upside is considerable, but he first needs to prove his injuries are behind him. After a lost year, he likely will head back to Auburn in 2017.
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  Ranked Washington Nationals #10 prospect in 2016
  Franco was one of the youngest players in the 2013 international free agent class, waiting until his 16th birthday on Aug. 15 to sign with the Nationals for $900,000. He reached short-season Auburn late in 2015 as an 18-year-old. Franco's physical build belies his youth, and his strength helps him in all facets of the game. He generates good bat speed and raw power, which he should get to more consistently as he matures. His strike-zone judgment still needs some refinement. In particular he needs to learn to lay off breaking balls away, but he showed a willingness to work a walk for a young player and has a decent offensive approach. Defensively, he profiles well at third base, with his glove being his best present tool. His plus arm strength, range and athleticism make him a good defender at the hot corner who will be able to stay at the position. Optimistic scouts see Franco with a chance to have four above-average tools, with speed the only one lacking. He is far away from the majors and will need a strong spring with the bat to join Victor Robles--part of the same 2013 international class--at low Class A Hagerstown in 2016.