ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – In late June, Rays shortstop Wander Franco was benched for two games because manager Kevin Cash said he wasn’t being a good teammate. Fast forward to now, where Franco is preparing to go to Seattle as an American League All-Star.
“It’s going to be super good,” Franco said through his interpreter Manny Navarro. “We all learn from the bad stuff and all the errors that we make, and we’ve got to just keep moving forward.”
The 22-year-old was originally left off the American League roster, with Cory Seager and Bo Bichette getting the nod at shortstop over Franco.
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Because the Yankees Aaron Judge isn’t able to play, Franco was named as his replacement. Cash says it doesn’t matter how Franco got in; he’s an All-Star.
“Huge congrats to Wander,” Cash said. “We all think he’s very deserving of what he’s put together this first half. It doesn’t matter when you get announced; just being an American League All-Star is pretty special.”
Franco is batting .284 with 10 home runs, 44 RBIs, and 28 steals. He seems to be happy being back after the suspension, but according to Cash, Franco will be judged on being a good teammate over the course of the entire season. In other words, it’s too early to tell if he’s made a change. Franco did say he’s grateful for this chance.
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“Thank God for this opportunity, Franco said. “Always keep your head up, try to stay positive, and just always take advantage of any of these opportunities and just have fun.”
The Rays have two starters, outfielder Randy Arozarena and first baseman Yandy Diaz. Pitcher Shane McClanahan who started last year’s All-Star game, was also named but won’t be able to pitch because of a back injury. Arozarena will also be participating in the Home Run Derby.
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