Not did the Phillies have to suffer Bobby Abreu whining on his way out the door yesterday, but Ryan Franklin’s farewell to the club was less than fond as well, writes the Philadelphia Daily News’ Marcus Hayes.
Yesterday, the Phillies designated Franklin (above) for assignment. They have 10 days to dispose of his contract. The Rangers and Pirates are believed to be interested.
Did Franklin feel betrayed? Lied to?
“Yeah,” Franklin said. “They signed me to be a starter. I did nothing in spring training to show them I couldn’t start.
“After Leiber got hurt, they brought the young guys up, and I said, ‘Why? Why can’t I get an opportunity?’ ” Franklin said.
This is the latest misjudgment in Gillick’s first season. After touting their improved bench, infielder Alex Gonzalez played so badly he retired, catcher Sal Fasano broke down and was designated for assignment last week, and infielder Abraham Nunez is hitting .167. In the bullpen, Franklin, Arthur Rhodes, Aaron Fultz, Julio Santana, Ricardo Rodriguez all have failed to perform to expectations.
Franklin was failing, but hoped that starting might help him out.
Franklin said he asked manager Charlie Manuel twice, in private, and was rebuffed. Franklin finally got a chance: A spot start in Toronto. He declined, since it was made plain it would be a one-start deal.
“This really worked me mentally,” Franklin said. “I never would have signed if I had known this.”