PT TOMORROW: NL East—How often will Maikel Franco play?

Philadelphia Phillies

As we have discussed here a few times this season and most recently on August 21, top prospect Maikel Franco (1B/3B, PHI) has been promoted to the majors. He has dealt with ups and downs with Triple-A Lehigh Valley this season, but he has heated up since the All-Star break slashing .309/.326/.551 with 10 HR, 36 RBI, 2 SB and 25 K in 178 AB. It will be interesting to see how much he plays during the month of September. Manager Ryne Sandberg has said that he would like to get Franco at least 50-60 AB this month. Most of his time figures to come at third base, but there is a good chance he'll get the occasional start at first base as well, particularly against left-handed pitching.

Ryan Howard (1B, PHI) has had some...

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