Jeff Francoeur, or "Frenchy", is a 30-year-old outfielder who has been all over the place. Francoeur was drafted in 2002 by the Atlanta Braves, made his debut in 2005. His career has not turned out as he planned, as Francouer has for five different team. Well, he can now make it six as the San Diego Padres have called him up to the big leagues.
Francoeur took outfielder Cameron Maybin's roster slot, who was suspended 25 games on Wednesday for testing positive for amphetamines.
Francoeur posts a career batting average of .263, but has hit well in the minors. Francoeur was hitting .294 and 15 homers with the Triple-A El Paso Chihuahuas. On a side note, he also pitched in relief and posted a 4.26 ERA, striking out 4 while allowing 5 hits and 3 runs, in 6-1/3 innings.
Francoeur, who had an opt-out clause in his minor league deal, will meet the Padres in Chicago. This weekend, he'll return home to Atlanta for a series against the Braves. Francoeur has been a class act his for his entire career, and it is great to see him get another MLB opportunity.