The Rome Braves have announced that Atlanta Braves veteran Julio Franco will join the team beginning Thursday, August 16th.
The 48-year-old first baseman cleared waivers and accepted a Minor League assignment with Rome, with an agreement the Braves would bring him back to the Majors by Sept. 1. That's when rosters can be expanded for the season's final month. The veteran first baseman will celebrate his 49th birthday Aug. 23rd.
"It's an honor to have someone with his experience and tenure joining our team," says Rome General Manager Michael Dunn. Franco is expected to be with Rome through Saturday and possibly longer.
Rome continues their road trip in Greensboro tonight. The Rome Braves return home on Thursday August 16 to play the Greenville Drive.
Franco takes throw at first.
Click to enlarge photo.
- Photo2 by Tim Evearitt (file photo)