Julio Franco immortalized in the Latin Baseball Hall of Fame
Santo Domingo. The Latin Baseball Hall of Fame has announced the induction of Dominican Julio César Franco, who joins the Class of 2025 as one of the new immortals of Latin American baseball. This recognition celebrates his exceptional career, his exemplary longevity, and his notable impact both on and off the field. With a professional career spanning more than three decades, Franco personifies the perseverance, talent, and discipline that have inspired multiple generations. In Major League Baseball (MLB), he accumulated 2,586 hits, 173 home runs, and a batting average of .298 throughout his career. He stood out as the American League batting champion in 1991, with an impressive average of .341. His performance earned him three All-Star selections and five Silver Bats, solidifying him as one of the most consistent hitters of his time. Franco left his mark on various MLB teams, including the Philadelphia Phillies, Cleveland Indians, Texas Rangers, Chicago White Sox, Milwaukee Brewers, Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Atlanta Braves, and New York Mets. In addition to his time in the United States, Franco demonstrated his versatility and love for the game in professional leagues in Japan, Korea, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. At 49 years old, he continued to compete at an elite level, defying the limits of time as few athletes have achieved.This announcement adds to the previously confirmed induction of the also Dominican Miguel Tejada to the Class of 2025. Tejada, who was named Most Valuable Player in 2002, a six-time All-Star and known for his energy, will also be immortalized this year. The induction ceremony is scheduled for the end of this year, and more names to complete this historic class are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. For now, Latin baseball celebrates the beginning of an induction that promises to be unforgettable.Outside the diamond, Julio César Franco has been a benchmark of professionalism, humility, and silent leadership, qualities that made him an admired figure.
Alofoke Deportes
