Introduction:
Ryan Franklin, the legendary MLB pitcher, had a career that was both fascinating and tragic. A Seattle Mariners icon, he pitched for three teams in 12 seasons, earning a spot in the 2009 All-Star Game and the pitcher of the month award twice in the same season. However, at the same time, he also faced many difficulties and controversies. Let’s take a look at the rise and fall of Ryan Franklin, the legendary MLB pitcher known for both fame and infamy.
Ryan’s Early Years:
Ryan Franklin was born on March 5, 1973, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He was a natural athlete and excelled in baseball and basketball. He went to Spiro High School, where he was a standout athlete in six sports, including baseball. He was also a highly touted prospect and was eventually selected in the 23rd round of the 1992 Major League Baseball draft.
Early Career:
Ryan Franklin started his professional MLB career with the Seattle Mariners in 1999. He quickly made an impression, setting a major league record for scoreless innings pitched to start the season. He continued to establish himself as an essential member of the Mariners rotation over the next few seasons and was known for his ability to pitch deep into games.
Controversies:
Despite his on-field success, Ryan Franklin faced his fair share of controversies throughout his career. In 2005, he was suspended for 10 games for testing positive for steroids. In 2007, Franklin was recorded shouting homophobic slurs to Philadelphia Phillies fans. Despite his apologies, he continued to face backlash and criticism from the media and fans.
Last Seasons and Retirement:
Ryan Franklin eventually slowed down in the latter stages of his career, and injuries also took a toll on his performances. He retired on June 27, 2011, after 12 seasons in the MLB, leaving behind a mixed legacy that included both moments of glory and controversy.
FAQs:
Q1. Which team did Ryan Franklin start his MLB career with?
Ans. Ryan Franklin started his MLB career with the Seattle Mariners in 1999.
Q2. Which record did Ryan Franklin set in the Mariners’ 1999 season opener?
Ans. Ryan Franklin set a major league record for scoreless innings pitched to start the season.
Q3. What was Ryan Franklin’s professional record for pitching?
Ans. Ryan Franklin’s professional record for pitching was 62 wins and 76 losses.
Q4. What was Ryan Franklin’s first All-Star appearance year?
Ans. Ryan Franklin’s first All-Star appearance was in 2009.
Q5. Why was Ryan Franklin suspended for ten games in 2005?
Ans. Ryan Franklin was suspended for ten games in 2005 for testing positive for steroids.
Q6: What controversies did Ryan Franklin face during his career?
Ans. Ryan Franklin faced many controversies during his career, including using steroids and shouting homophobic slurs to Philadelphia Phillies fans.
Q7: What record did Ryan Franklin set in 2009?
Ans. In 2009 Ryan Franklin was the pitcher of the month twice in the same season.
Conclusion:
Ryan Franklin’s story is one of great success but also contains moments of regret and controversies. His early years were marked by his excellence, and he quickly became a household name as a successful MLB pitcher. However, as his fame grew, so did the controversies surrounding him, ultimately leading to his retirement. Despite his mixed legacy, Ryan Franklin is still remembered for his achievements, and his records and achievements should be appreciated and celebrated nonetheless.