Julio

Franco

Franco is still expected to re-sign with the Braves, but if the two sides can’t come to terms, the Phillies will go after him.

No slight to Adam LaRoche, but the Braves are facing a lefty, and Franco is 5-for-7 with two career homers off Tom Glavine.

Franco is eligible to return Sept. 2.

Franco chose a good time for a hot streak, as Chipper Jones says he’s more comfortable playing third base than first base anyway.

Franco, 45, is fine is not upset with the move. ''No, no, no,’' he said. ''I’m just here to play baseball and win. If that’s what it’s going to take to win, that’s fine.’' Franco is the Braves’ best pinch-hitter, going 5-for-13 with 10 RBI in the role this year, but he won’t be worth holding on to in most leagues.

Since the Braves hadn’t faced a lefty in eight days, Franco got a rare start in place of Adam LaRoche against a righty today. LaRoche will be back at first base tomorrow.

Franco was scratched from the starting lineup with flu-like symptoms.

Franco was scheduled for a rare start against left-hander Dontrelle Willis. Since he can’t go, Carlos Delgado has assumed his usual spot.

That has be some sort of record. Franco has been taking grounders at both second and third just in case he’s needed. Before today, he hadn’t played any position except first since starting 34 games at second for the Indians in 1997.

Not a surprise. The 46-year-old Franco hit .309/.378/.441 in 320 AB last season. He’ll remain Adam LaRoche’s platoon partner at first base, and his return means Mike Hessman could be bumped off the 40-man roster at some point.