Photo courtesy of the Fresno Grizzlies

The Fresno Grizzlies announced on Thursday that its president, Derek Franks, will be leaving the organization.

Franks has been with the organization for 22 years, starting his career with the Grizzlies as a ticket office intern in 2024. In 2015, he was named the Pacific Coast League Executive of the Year, the same year he became president of the organization.

During his time with the Grizzlies, he oversaw more than $15 million in improvements to Chukchansi Park, including the additions of Fresno Social, the Splash Park, a new videoboard and more.

Franks also led the organization during two ownership transitions, including the beginning of a new era under Diamond Baseball Holdings, providing operational continuity and stability for staff, partners and fans alike.

He also oversaw the Grizzlies when they introduced the Fresno Tacos “alter ego,” hosted several events including taco Truck Throwdown and Tequila Fest, and continued to elevate the organization’s presence both locally and nationally.

“The past 22 years have been a dream come true,” Franks said. “I grew up in this organization, and it shaped far more than my career — it shaped my life. I met my wife because of this job. My kids grew up at the ballpark. I’ve built friendships here in Fresno and throughout Minor League Baseball that I know will last a lifetime. I’m incredibly grateful to Diamond Baseball Holdings for the expertise, support, and belief they’ve brought to this organization.”

Franks said he looks forward to continuing his professional career here in Fresno and remaining active in the local community.

Franks was born in Avenal and his family moved to Kingsburg before he started school.

He graduated from Fresno State in 2006 with a degree in mass communication & journalism and public relations.

Pat Battle and Peter Freund, Executive Chairman and CEO of Diamond Baseball Holdings, respectively, said Franks impact on the Grizzlies and the Central Valley cannot be overstated.

“Over the course of more than two decades, he played a central role in shaping the club into a cornerstone of the community, leading with vision, creativity and an unwavering commitment to excellence,” the Grizzlies said in a statement. “We are deeply grateful for his dedication to the Grizzlies and the city of Fresno, and we wish him nothing but the best in his next chapter.”