Franklin Morales, a left-handed pitcher from Venezuela, began his Major League Baseball career with the Colorado Rockies. Signed as an amateur free agent in 2002, Morales worked his way through the minor leagues, showcasing his potential as a pitcher with a powerful arm. His MLB debut came on August 18, 2007, when he was called up to the Rockies. Morales quickly became a valuable asset for the team, contributing to their late-season push and eventual appearance in the World Series that year.
During his time with the Rockies, Morales was primarily used as a starting pitcher but also saw time in the bullpen. His versatility on the mound allowed him to adapt to various roles, which proved beneficial for the Rockies. In 2009, Morales transitioned to a full-time relief role, where he found a niche as a left-handed specialist. His ability to handle high-pressure situations made him a reliable option for the Rockies' bullpen.
In May 2011, Morales was traded to the Boston Red Sox. With the Red Sox, he continued to serve as a reliever, but also made occasional starts when needed. His tenure in Boston was marked by his role in the team's bullpen during their 2013 World Series championship run. Morales' performance in the postseason helped solidify his reputation as a dependable pitcher in critical games.
After his stint with the Red Sox, Morales returned to the Rockies in 2014. He was utilized as both a starter and reliever, demonstrating his adaptability once again. However, his second tenure with the Rockies was less consistent, and he struggled with control issues at times.
In 2015, Morales signed with the Kansas City Royals. His role with the Royals was primarily as a reliever, and he played a part in their successful season, which culminated in a World Series victory. Morales' experience and ability to handle various pitching roles added depth to the Royals' bullpen.
The following year, Morales joined the Toronto Blue Jays, where he continued to pitch out of the bullpen. His time with the Blue Jays was brief, and he was released mid-season. Morales' career in Major League Baseball concluded after the 2016 season, as he did not sign with another team.
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