Julio Franco has finally retired from the game of baseball at age 49 after 23 years as a professional ballplayer, according to the Contra Costa Times. "It was the hardest decision in my life," Franco said in an interview published Saturday. "I always said I would be the first one to know the exact moment. I think the numbers speak for themselves, the production speaks, and this is the right moment." "I understand that my time has passed, and the great men and athletes know when to say enough." In 2007, he became the oldest player ever to hit a home run in the Major Leagues.