Jesse Franklin

The headliner of Michigan’s 2017 recruiting class, Franklin wasted no time putting his mark on the program, leading the team in home runs (10), slugging (.588) and RBI (47) in 2018. His hitting dipped a bit as a sophomore, though he did increase his walk rate significantly, and he does have some track record hitting in the Cape Cod League, though a 2018 stint was more successful than 2019. Franklin’s medical sheet has piled up over the years, as he’s dealt with labrum issues, hamstring issues and didn’t play a game in the shortened 2020 season thanks to a broken collarbone. That leaves Franklin as a bit of an unknown, as scouts like his all-around package of average tools and believed in his work ethic and plus-plus baseball instincts to make the most of them. Franklin has a professional approach at the plate and doesn’t strike out frequently, though some evaluators have noted that a wide stance can cause his swing to get too lengthy, which causes issues timing up fastball velocity. When he’s able to let his hands work, Franklin has above-average power potential. A center fielder for Michigan, Franklin will likely be pushed to a corner outfield spot at the next level. He gets terrific reads and has an electric first step but lacks the dynamic running ability that separates major league center fielders. He should be an above-average defender in a corner. While a short season and injuries have clouded Franklin’s draft status, those who have a history with him believe he’s a high probability major leaguer in some capacity.