FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Fresno Grizzlies president Derek Franks is leaving the organization after spending 22 years with the minor league ballclub.
The team announced Franks’ departure in a news release on Wednesday afternoon.
“The past 22 years have been a dream come true,” Franks said in a statement. “I grew up in this organization, and it shaped far more than my career, it shaped my life. I met my wife because of this job. My kids grew up at the ballpark. I’ve built friendships here in Fresno and throughout Minor League Baseball that I know will last a lifetime.”
Franks began his career with the Grizzlies as a ticket office intern before working his way to the top of the organization in 2018.
During his career, Franks oversaw more than $15 million in improvements to Chukchansi Park as well as navigating the Minor League Baseball team through two ownership transitions. “I’m incredibly grateful to Diamond Baseball Holdings for the expertise, support, and belief they’ve brought to this organization. They’ve strengthened the foundation in meaningful ways, and I leave knowing the team is in a great place with a phenomenal ownership group,” Franks said.
The Grizzlies also earned five World Series titles by the club’s Major League parent affiliates while Franks was in charge.
“Derek’s impact on the Grizzlies and the Central Valley simply cannot be overstated,” said Pat Battle and Peter Freund, Executive Chairman and CEO of Diamond Baseball Holdings, respectively. “Over the course of more than two decades, he played a central role in shaping the club into a cornerstone of the community, leading with vision, creativity and an unwavering commitment to excellence. We are deeply grateful for his dedication to the Grizzlies and the city of Fresno, and we wish him nothing but the best in his next chapter.”
The Grizzlies’ news release hints Franks will be staying and continuing his professional career in Fresno.
“I’m proud of what we’ve built, thankful for the friendships that will last a lifetime, and excited to watch the Grizzlies continue to thrive in the years ahead,” said Franks.
The new General Manager of the Fresno Grizzlies will be announced next week.
