John Franco

John Anthony Franco (b. September 16, 1960 in Brooklyn, New York) is a left-handed relief pitcher who most recently played for the Houston Astros, and is considered one of the greatest closers of all-time. For 14 of the 20 years in his career, he played for the New York Mets, and he remains a baseball icon in New York City sports.

Career accomplishments (through 2004)

• Pitching record: 90-86
• Saves: 424, 2nd most in major league history behind Lee Smith, and the most for any left-handed pitcher.
• Strikeouts: 959
• ERA: 2.84
• Innings pitched: 1230.2
• Games pitched: 1088
• 4-time All-Star (1986-87, 1989, 1990)
• Postseason record: 2-0, one save, 1.88 ERA in 15 postseason appearances.