Cubs Draft Westlake’s Franco in 7th Round

Matt Franco, a Westlake High infielder, was drafted in the seventh round of Tuesday’s amateur baseball draft by the Chicago Cubs.

Westlake catcher Jim Henderson, who was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers, said he will sign a national letter of intent today to play at USC. Henderson batted .432 with 5 home runs and 28 runs batted in for Westlake, which advanced to the Southern Section 4-A playoffs for the first time in the school’s nine-year history. Westlake placed second in the Marmonte League and finished the season with a 14-11-1 record.

Franco, who batted .519 with 6 home runs, 8 doubles and 26 RBIs, has been offered a scholarship by Cal State Fullerton, but he expects to negotiate with Chicago scout Spider Jorgenson this weekend.

“If the offer is right, I want to sign with the Cubs,” Franco said.