Behind the Jersey with local standout Drew Franklin

Published on Feb 24 2026

Born and raised in Fortuna, Drew Franklin carries his hometown with him every time he steps onto the field. A graduate of Fortuna High School, Franklin grew up alongside his brother Tanner, building the kind of competitive spirit that small towns often produce. Family has always been at the center of his journey, and that foundation is evident in the way he approaches both baseball and life.

Franklin first fell in love with the game at nine years old when he began pitching in Minor League for Eel River Little League. From that moment on, the mound became his space. Today, as a starting pitcher for the College of the Redwoods baseball team, that same passion still fuels him.

Choosing CR was about more than convenience. Staying local allowed him to continue playing the sport he loves while working a part time job and easing financial pressure. But the decision also meant representing home. With family members who previously played baseball at CR, wearing the jersey feels personal.

On the mound, Franklin embraces the control. “The ball is in your hand, and the play does not start until you make your pitch,” he says. He thrives on setting the tempo and bringing energy to the game. As a starting pitcher, he understands the impact he has on the outcome and welcomes that responsibility.

Preparation is everything. His pregame routine begins two hours before first pitch. Music goes in first to get his mind right. He loosens up with a massage gun and muscle roller, moves into dynamic stretches, and warms his arm with resistance bands and plyo balls before playing short and long toss. After his bullpen session, he sits quietly in the dugout, focused and ready. When it is time to compete, he is locked in.

But the work doesn’t stop after the final out. 

For Drew, most days start with a 20-minute drive to campus for study hall, followed by practice. Later, he returns for team lifts and often fits in another workout at night because training is another passion of his. Many days stretch past midnight. It is a grind, but one he embraces. He balances academics by staying ahead on assignments, knowing preparation off the field is just as important as preparation on it.

As for memorable moments, one stands out above the rest. Game 1 against Hartnell College. Franklin pitched seven strong innings in his second start of the year. Although CR trailed when he left the mound, the team rallied for a walk off win, earning its first victory of the season. The comeback reflected the heart and grit of the group.

As one of the few sophomores on a young team, Franklin has stepped into a leadership role. When his time at CR ends, he hopes to be remembered for who he was as a teammate and leader. 

Whether his path leads to a four-year program or to Cal Poly Humboldt to pursue personal training, one thing is certain: his drive will not waver. The destination may change, but the commitment, discipline, and bulldog mentality that define him will travel with him. No matter where he lands next, he will continue to compete with the same edge and chase every opportunity with relentless determination.