Wander Franco Placed on Restricted List Amid Investigation by MLB
SAN FRANCISCO — Wander Franco, shortstop for the Tampa Bay Rays, has been placed on the restricted list following allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a minor. Major League Baseball (MLB) has launched an official investigation into the matter, and authorities in Franco’s native Dominican Republic are also conducting their own inquiry.
The accusations against Franco surfaced on social media on Sunday, prompting the Rays to take action. Franco did not participate in Sunday’s game and did not travel with the team to San Francisco for their three-game series against the Giants.
In a statement released on Monday, the Rays announced that Franco would be on leave from the club for the duration of their current road trip, which could be extended depending on the outcome of the investigations. If cleared, Franco could potentially return to the team on August 22.
MLB officials initially started conducting due diligence on the matter, but it has now escalated into an official investigation. The Rays expressed their support for the league’s actions, stating that they have no further comments on the matter at this time.
The media office of the Dominican Republic attorney general’s office confirmed that there are ongoing investigations regarding Franco’s alleged relationship with a minor. The Diario Libre newspaper also reported a separate complaint filed against Franco in July involving a different minor.
Franco was present at Tropicana Field on Sunday but was not seen in the clubhouse after the social media posts gained traction. In an Instagram Live video, Franco denied the accusations and expressed his frustration with the rumors.
The MLB has a dedicated department of investigations that operates independently of the teams. They have dispatched a group to Franco’s hometown of Bani in the Dominican Republic to gather more information.
During Franco’s time on the restricted list, he will continue to receive his salary but will not count against the team’s active or 40-man roster. The Rays have called up prospect Osleivis Basabe to fill in at shortstop while Franco is on leave.
Manager Kevin Cash and the team’s players expressed their confidence that the situation would not be a distraction or disrupt the team’s performance. Franco has been in exceptional form recently, with impressive batting statistics and strong defensive contributions.
If Franco’s absence is prolonged, the Rays have several options to consider, including relying on other infielders or exploring trades for minor league players. The team remains committed to providing opportunities for players like Basabe to showcase their skills.
This investigation comes after Franco signed a lucrative 11-year contract with the Rays in November 2021. The contract guarantees him $182 million, with the potential to earn up to $223 million over 12 years.
As MLB and Dominican authorities continue their investigations, the Rays organization will await further updates on the situation.