The star forward needs just nine more goals heading into this weekend's clash with Richmond.
"I would be a pretty bold man to predict him kicking nine goals this weekend," Bateman said.
"I would like to see him get to the 100 and I think he will definitely take the next three games for him to get there."
Bateman also praised Franklin's work ethic this season aside from his goalkicking exploits.
"I am really happy for Buddy," Bateman said.
"A lot of the media talks about the goals he kicks himself but the team stuff he does goes unnoticed. His tackling and his pressure have probably been better than any forward for this year.
"That does not get exposure in the media but it is something we are really pleased about in team meetings."
The talented midfielder insisted that his star teammate would not be nervous about the impending milestone.
“He’s not the nervous type. Buddy just goes out there and does his thing pretty much. He’s really team orientated and more focused on us winning a game than him kicking 100 goals.”
As for Hawthorn’s injury list, Bateman said that Michael Osborne, who has missed two weeks due to a corked buttock, should be available for selection this week.
“Michael was actually pretty close to playing last week. We gave him one more week to freshen up so he’ll definitely be in the mix this week.”
As for his young teammate Cyril “Junior” Rioli, Bateman said that his position on the field means he isn’t surprised that other Rising Star nominees Trent Cotchin and Rhys Palmer are being touted as possible winners ahead of the young Hawk.
“It’s just the role he plays. Palmer and Cotchin play a lot through the midfield and get a heap of ball every week so you can expect that.”
However Bateman tipped Rioli to follow in his footsteps with a future role in the Hawks’ midfield.
“After a couple of pre-seasons, he could move into the midfield. I think he’s got that sort of scope.”
