Franco contacts Rangers about closer's job

(Dallas, Texas-AP) -- Free agent relief pitcher John Franco has reportedly contacted the Texas Rangers about becoming the team's closer. <br><br>The left-hander filed for free agency last week from

Thursday, November 9th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Dallas, Texas-AP) -- Free agent relief pitcher John Franco has reportedly contacted the Texas Rangers about becoming the team's closer.

The left-hander filed for free agency last week from the National League champion New York Mets. He lost the closer's job with the Mets this year to Armando Benitez.

Franco is second on baseball's career saves list, 53 behind Lee Smith. Agent Dan Horwits says Franco is aware of the record, but that isn't the driving force.

Horwits says Franco is a closer and likes the job.

John Wetteland has been the Texas closer.