Left-handed pitcher Jeff Francis‘ last successful season was in 2007 where he won 17 games. Three years later and after bouts of shoulder soreness and arthroscopic surgery, he’s proving that he can still pitch in the Major Leagues. He’s currently 4-4 with a 4.67 ERA in 15 starts in the final year of his four-year contract. He’s making $5.75 million this season, and has a $7.5 million club option for 2011, but according to Troy E. Renck of The Denver Post, it’s unlikely to be picked up.

Francis would like to return on a new contract if the club doesn’t exercise their option.

“It’s something that you think about, but the reality is that it leaves your mind once you are in the game,” said Francis. “But there is something to be said for playing with the same team that you came up with. I don’t know what it would be like anywhere else.”

Renck says that the chances of the team re-signing him will come down to his performance in the final 50 games. Manager Jim Tracy sees improvement in the left-hander.

“He’s doing a better job of using both sides of the plate and he’s pitching inside better,” Tracy said. “That’s essential for him.”