Noah Franco: Rising Two-Way Star Dominating College Baseball with Power and Precision

Introduction: Noah Franco’s Emergence in Baseball

Noah Franco is quickly becoming a household name in college baseball. Known for his exceptional versatility as a two-way player—both as a batter and a pitcher—he has made a significant impact in his freshman year at Texas Christian University (TCU). Born on May 13, 2006, in Bellflower, California, Franco moved to Florida to pursue elite baseball training at IMG Academy, a decision that would set the foundation for a remarkable career.

As a left-handed batter and pitcher, Franco brings unique strength and skill to both sides of the diamond. His breakout season in 2025 with the TCU Horned Frogs has earned him national attention, establishing him as one of the top young prospects in the game today.

Early Life and Education: The Journey to IMG Academy

Noah Franco’s early life reflects a clear dedication to excellence. Growing up in California, he showcased athletic talent at a young age. Recognizing his potential, he and his family made the strategic decision for him to attend IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida. This move positioned him in a premier environment for baseball development.

At IMG, Franco refined his technique and developed into a nationally ranked two-way prospect. He reclassified from the Class of 2025 to the Class of 2024 to accelerate his baseball journey. With elite coaching and competition, his years at IMG laid the groundwork for a seamless transition to Division I college baseball.

Noah Franco’s Breakout at TCU

A Freshman Season to Remember

In 2025, Noah Franco joined the TCU Horned Frogs and immediately made his mark. As a freshman, he played in 56 games, impressing fans and scouts alike. Offensively, he posted a .313 batting average, with 11 home runs and 49 RBIs. His slugging percentage reached .548, showcasing both contact and power-hitting abilities.

What set Franco apart wasn’t just his offense. As a pitcher, he appeared in eight games, three of which were starts. Over 12.1 innings, he struck out 18 batters. While his ERA was 7.30, his control and velocity indicate strong future potential. As he gains more collegiate experience, his development as a pitcher is expected to soar.

Key Honors and Recognition

Franco’s freshman season was capped by numerous honors. He was named to the Big 12 First Team and the Big 12 All-Freshman Team. His standout performance earned him a spot on the NCBWA Freshman All-American Second Team. These accolades are strong indicators of his talent and his bright future in the sport.

Scouting Report: Strengths as a Two-Way Player

Offensive Skillset

Noah Franco’s offensive game is built on a combination of power, patience, and precision. With a left-handed swing, he generates elite bat speed and can drive the ball to all fields. In his 2025 season, he recorded 68 hits, including 16 doubles, one triple, and 11 home runs. His on-base percentage (.396) reflects his plate discipline and ability to draw walks.

Franco’s strength at the plate allows him to be a consistent threat in the middle of the lineup. He shows maturity beyond his years, working counts and capitalizing on mistakes from pitchers. His swing mechanics are fluid and explosive, making him one of the top young hitters in college baseball.

Pitching Mechanics and Velocity

As a pitcher, Franco throws left-handed with a fastball that sits in the low-90s and touches higher on occasion. He complements his fastball with a sharp slider, effective cutter, and a deceptive changeup. His 18 strikeouts in limited innings highlight his ability to overpower hitters.

While still refining command and consistency on the mound, Franco’s pitching potential is undeniable. With continued development, he could grow into a reliable two-way threat—something rare and highly valuable in today’s game.

Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Partnership

In early 2025, Franco joined Rapsodo’s NIL program, becoming one of two elite baseball players to represent the brand. This partnership reflects his high profile and influence in college athletics. NIL deals like this highlight how the sports landscape has shifted, allowing student-athletes to benefit from their performance and marketability.

The Rapsodo deal is a testament to Franco’s growing brand, both on and off the field. As he continues to excel, more endorsements are expected to follow, expanding his presence in the world of sports.

Professional Aspirations and Career Goals

Aiming for the Major Leagues

Noah Franco’s career goal is clear: to become a professional Major League Baseball player. His commitment to excellence, paired with a track record of consistent improvement, makes this ambition very realistic. Scouts and analysts already see him as a potential first-round pick in future MLB drafts.

He has expressed a desire not only to reach the big leagues but to excel there. Franco’s ultimate dream includes becoming an MLB All-Star and earning a place in the Hall of Fame—goals that match his talent and determination.

What Lies Ahead

As Franco enters his sophomore year at TCU, all eyes will be on his continued development. Whether he focuses more on pitching or maintains his dual-role status, one thing is certain: he is one of the most exciting young players in college baseball.

His ability to impact the game in multiple ways makes him a unique prospect. With maturity, coaching, and continued performance, Franco is on the path to a successful professional career.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is Noah Franco?

Noah Franco is a two-way college baseball player at TCU who excels as both a hitter and a pitcher. He previously played at IMG Academy and is one of the top young prospects in the sport.

How old is Noah Franco?

He was born on May 13, 2006, making him 19 years old as of July 2025.

What position does Noah Franco play?

Franco is a two-way player. He plays outfield and first base on offense and pitches as a left-handed starter or reliever.

Where did Noah Franco go to high school?

He attended IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida.

Has Noah Franco signed any NIL deals?

Yes, he signed an NIL partnership with Rapsodo in 2025, recognizing his national status and performance.

What are Noah Franco’s college baseball stats?

In 2025, he batted .313 with 11 home runs and pitched 12.1 innings with 18 strikeouts for TCU.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Noah Franco

Noah Franco has already proven himself as one of the top two-way players in college baseball. His unique skillset, relentless work ethic, and drive for success have positioned him among the nation’s elite. Whether on the mound or at the plate, he delivers impact and excitement every time he plays.

As he continues his journey at TCU and beyond, fans and scouts alike will watch his career closely. Noah Franco is not just a name to remember—he’s a player shaping the future of modern baseball

Proper News