Jose Franco
Breakdown
Performance
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April 30, 2026
Throws bulk innings Wednesday
Franco allowed three runs on four hits and one walk while striking out three over three relief innings in Wednesday's 13-2 loss to the Rockies.
Analysis
The Reds bullpen had a lot of work to do when starter Brandon Williamson was removed after three innings with left shoulder fatigue. Franco, who was a starter at Triple-A Louisville, could slot into the rotation pending the results of Williamson's MRI, which is scheduled for Thursday. Aside from Franco, the Reds could also reach down to Louisville for Chase Petty, who was removed early from his start Wednesday for what appears to be a potential recall should Williamson be unavailable when his next turn in the rotation comes due Monday.
April 25, 2026
Summoned back to majors
The Reds recalled Franco from Triple-A Louisville on Saturday.
Analysis
Franco had a previous stint with Cincinnati from late March to early April, appearing in three games and allowing two earned runs while posting a 4:5 K:BB over 5.2 innings. He's now back to take the big-league bullpen spot of Kyle Nicolas, who was optioned to Louisville in a corresponding transaction. Franco will likely work in middle and long relief while up with the Reds.
