With the 97th overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft, the Braves opted to select another college player. The team did not have a selection in the second round but added University of Michigan outfielder Jesse Franklin in the third.
Franklin was a highly touted prospect coming out of high school, and had a terrific freshman season for the Wolverines, hitting .327 with 10 homers and 47 RBI in just 165 at-bats. He took a bit of a step back in his sophomore season in terms of contact, but still was promising nevertheless. We did not get a chance to see him this season, but it was not merely due to COVID-19. He was planning to return to action in early April, but hurt his collarbone in a skiing incident over his winter break.
The left-handed hitter was ranked as the 142nd best draft prospect by MLB.com. He has great athleticism and instincts and has well-rounded tools. It seems the biggest question is whether he will be able to stay at centerfield at the next level.
Welcome to Braves Country Jesse!
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