Barry Larkin says he would sign Kyle Farmer to long-term deal, make him Reds' captain

Analysts say a lot of things during the course of a Major League Baseball game, but there was one thing National Baseball Hall of Famer, former Cincinnati Reds great and Bally Sports Ohio analyst Barry Larkin said during the 3rd inning of the Reds' 11-2 win Monday night against the Miami Marlins at Great American Ball Park that had him trending on Twitter.

What Larkin said showed support for Reds infielder Kyle Farmer after Farmer's two-out, RBI single tied the game at 1. 

"Kyle Farmer - just getting it done, as 'Farm' does," Larkin said after Farmer's hit. "Just staying patient, staying aggressive. Didn't like the call on the check swing. Didn't lose his composure, continued to battle. You know, (BSO play-by-play announcer) John (Sadak), we were talking about moves that you and I would make? And I mentioned to you that I would sign this kid right here, Kyle Farmer, to a long-term deal and slap a 'C' on his chest. I love everything about Kyle Farmer. His competitive nature. His work acumen. His humility. His tenaciousness. He is just a pro, and I think a great example for how you want players in your organization to compete. And a guy that you can follow both on and off the field. Tremendous amount of respect for that man."

What's so controversial, given Farmer's status as a fan favorite and his propensity to come through in the clutch? Some suggested via Twitter that long-term deals should be reserved for young, star players. Farmer, who turns 32 in August, is hitting .258 with six home runs and 47 RBIs this season - his second with the Reds.

Earlier: FOCO releases bobbleheads of Larkin, Griffey Jr.

Over parts of six MLB seasons, Farmer has hit .254 with 31 homers and 151 RBIs in 1,212 career plate appearances.

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