Maikel Franco (3B, PHI) - Waiver Wire Pickups

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OWNED IN: 36% of Fleaflicker Leagues

ANALYSIS: It’s about time something went right for the Philadelphia Phillies. Franco has been putting on a show this June, slashing .425/.465/.850 with four home runs and eight RBI. He’s been so good in fact that Manager Ryne Sandberg has even experimented with batting the rookie cleanup, although he seems more comfortable batting him in the 5^th spot instead.

It’s tough to say what Franco could be going forward. One one hand, his pedigree as a prospect is impressive. On the other, one cannot just ignore his May struggles and his inexperience. The only thing one can really say with any confidence, is that right now, today, Franco is swinging one of the hottest bats in the majors. There will come a time for debating his true talent value as a fantasy prospect. I’m just not so sure now is that time. Fantasy owners have ridden much less talented players than Franco on the basis of a hot streak alone. I see no reason why the young 3^rd baseman should be an exception to this strategy. Grab him now and enjoy the ride while it lasts. You can worry about Franco’s long-term value another day.