The Franco-Files #14 (7/6-7/12)

in which we track the exploits of Julio and John Franco, baseball's two oldest players. They are both named J. Franco. Don't forget that.

14 installments in, the Franco-Files has developed a nice, easy, predictable rhythm. But as we all know, nothing stays nice, easy, and predictable for too long. Something always happens to knock one out of his complacent mindset, a reminder that existence is a crushing, oppressive force that will eventually consume all of us. The gaping mouth of the eternal void awaits.

But we must fight the void. Rage against the dying of the light and all that. That's certainly why we track John and Julio so meticulously. Their light has never died.

Or has it?

Today, we do not check in with Julio first. We check in with John. For a horrible thing has happened to him. On July 2nd, he was designated for assignment by the Astros. This means that the Astros have 10 days (through today) to decide what to do with him. Their options are to trade him, send him to the minors, or release him. Or, John could just announce his retirement. None of these things have happened yet, and here at GPC we are extremely anxious to see what will transpire.

We here at GPC apologize for not updating our readers about this development sooner. We felt like parents who just couldn't work up the guts to tell their children they are getting a divorce. But we cannot expect to shield our readers from life's difficult moments, and pledge to be more forthright in the future when tragedy strikes (as indeed it will, probably when we least suspect it).

To John, we sincerely hope that you find a way to continue your MLB career. We here at GPC love you very much, and will always support you, no matter what happens.

We'll be back next week with a new installment of the Franco-Files (including the usual Julio update). But for now, all our thoughts are with John, as we wait to see what happens.

Do not go gentle into that good night, John.