Julio Franco, the ageless wonder, stole the show at MLBx, a new-age home-run-hitting contest. At 67 years old, Franco's performance was nothing short of inspiring. Kevin Pillar, a fellow competitor, praised Franco's dedication to his craft, saying, 'Julio needs to be studied in a lab.'
The former Braves player's team, consisting of three individuals, defeated Pillar's group in the championship round. Franco's three-person team also won the first round against a team led by former Braves outfielder Brian Jordan. Franco's success in the contest is all the more remarkable considering his age and the fact that he was a late substitute for Andruw Jones, who chose not to compete.
MLBx is a unique baseball competition that emphasizes both offense and defense. Teams are composed of one former Braves player, a player from the Athletes Unlimited Softball League, and a baseball player from the University of Georgia or Georgia Tech. The contest features a 90-second at-bat for each player, with scoring based on home runs, defensive catches, and bonus targets. A five-swing 'Hot Streak' doubles the points.
The semifinal matchups showcased the talent and diversity of the players. Team Jordan and Team Franco were tied at the end of their semifinal round, with Megan Grant's victory in a rock, paper, scissors matchup securing her team's progress. The final showdown between Team Franco and Team Pillar was a thrilling display of skill and determination.
The event coincided with Braves Alumni Weekend, adding to the excitement. Franco's performance and the overall success of the MLBx contest raise questions about the potential for such events to become a regular part of baseball culture. The competition's unique format and the impressive performances of players like Franco and Pillar suggest that MLBx could be a valuable addition to the sport, offering a fresh and engaging experience for fans and players alike.
