2015 has been a year of prospects for the Phillies. The major storylines surrounding the club have been revolved around acquiring and developing young talent to create a new core of players to compete for a championship in the coming years. One of the biggest players that looks to be a part of that is Maikel Franco. The Phillies rookie third baseman hasn't played since August 11th due to a left wrist injury suffered against the Diamondbacks. Phillies manager Pete Mackanin met with the media prior to Tuesday nights series opener against the Mets and said that signs are pointing to Franco returning this weekend when the Phillies host the Marlins.
Maikel Franco should be back this weekend. Pete Mackanin says it would be good for him to play 3 games. #PhilliesTalk
— Marshall Harris (@mharrisCSN) September 29, 2015
Franco has had an impressive rookie campaign, slashing .277/.340/.490 with 22 doubles, a triple, 13 homers, 48 RBIs, 43 runs scored, 50 strikeouts and 25 walks.
Meanwhile, Ryan Howard has been sidelined with a knee injury since September 15th. It was the same knee he had a surgery on before. Pete Mackanin said that Howard has been doing well and could be available to pinch hit as early as tonight against the Mets.
Ryan Howard may be available to pinch hit tonight. #PhilliesTalk
— Marshall Harris (@mharrisCSN) September 29, 2015
Howard, 35, is hitting .229 this season with 23 home runs, 77 RBIs, 138 strikeouts and 27 walks.
Brandon Apter, Managing Editor for Philliedelphia.com
