 
12/17/2003 2:03 PM ET
Mets re-sign Franco
The New York Mets announced Wednesday that they have re-signed
left-hander John Franco to a one-year deal worth $1 million. He can
earn another $1 million in bonuses.
"We're confident that Johnny has fully recovered from his surgery of
two years ago and that he will be a productive member of our bullpen," said
Jim Duquette, the Mets General Manager. "He will provide veteran leadership
for our bullpen."
Franco, 43, was 0-3 with a 2.62 ERA in 38 games with two saves last
season for the Mets. John came back to pitch for the Mets on May 30th after
missing the entire 2002 season because of "Tommy John" surgery on May 15,
2002.
"I still think I can be a productive pitcher," said Franco. "I am
completely healthy now and I pitched better the second half of the season.
My doctors tell me that you get better results the second year after
surgery, so I'm looking forward to this season. I just want to contribute
to my team and help us win. I'll do whatever Art wants."
John, who was named New York's team captain in 2001 in a team vote,
will enter his 15th season with New York and 21st season in the majors.
Since joining the Mets in 1990, Franco holds club records for most saves
(274) and games pitched (643).
Franco is second on the All-Time Saves List with 424 saves, behind
Lee Smith and ranks sixth on the All-Time Games Pitched List with 1,036
appearances.
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