Diet and Discipline
Franco’s diet is a major factor in his endurance, but it is surprisingly elementary and does not include any exotic secret ingredients. He simply avoids anything fried and sticks to natural foods such as fruits, vegetables, egg whites, lean meats, and oatmeal. The key to this diet, however, may be his strict self-discipline.

Exercise is the other major factor in maintaining his condition. During the season, Franco works out five days a week with Mets strength coach Rick Slate, but it is perhaps his diligence during the offseason that keeps him going. 
      
“In November and December I work on my legs, back, biceps, triceps, and shoulders in the mornings, Monday through Friday,” he says. “In the afternoons I run a mile under seven minutes, and twice a week I swim. By January I’m doing plyometrics, running, hitting, and taking ground balls.”
    
Even his “hobbies” help keep him in playing shape: pilates, yoga, and basketball. He also firmly believes that the body needs a sufficient amount of rest to remain in peak physical condition, and that prayer keeps one spiritually fit. Stints playing pro ball in Japan, South Korea, and Mexico have honed his ability to adapt to different roles and styles of play, and the utilization of technology gives him a competitive edge.
    
“You have computers and videos so you can study what a itcher is doing or what you’re doing wrong,” says Franco.  There’s just so much more out there to prepare you than before.”

Unstoppable Career
When asked about the most memorable moments of a career in which he has accumulated over 2,500 hits, he answered, "Making it to the majors and winning the batting title with Texas in 1991.” With the Mets finishing the regular season with the best record in the National League, however, this answer may change if he gets to play in the Fall Classic for the first time. Should this happen, he would become the oldest player ever in the World Series, surpassing Philadelphia Athletics’ pitcher Jack Quinn, who played in the 1930 Series at the age of 47.
   
Yet, like the wise veteran he is, Franco is careful not to make any bold predictions about when asked what the chances are  that the Mets will make it that far.
   
“We have a special team,” he said. “Hopefully everything will come together in October.”