Jeff Francoeur

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. - Joshua 1:9

The Braves have optioned Jeff Francoeur to Double-A Mississippi. I admit that Francoeur's performance was a surprise. I thought this was going to be a break-out 40 HR season for Francoeur. Instead he gets optioned back to the minor leagues after hitting .234 with eight homers and 41 RBI.

Normally a player who bursts on the scene has a sophomore slump as opposing pitchers figure out where his weak spots are. Francoeur seems to have fallen off a cliff performance wise in his third season. Francoeur did get married in the off-season - maybe its his new living arrangement and marital bliss that is the root for his drop in performance? Francoeur wouldn't be the first guy to lose focus and confidence once getting hitched. Hopefully it's just a mechanical thing in his swing which can be worked out by joining his old coach in the minors.

The above Bible quote is the quote Francoeur has written on his batting glove. I hope it gives him comfort as he goes to Mississippi.