Major League Baseball Investigating Social Media Posts Involving Rays Shortstop Wander Franco
St. Petersburg, FL – Major League Baseball is currently conducting an investigation into social media posts involving Tampa Bay Rays’ shortstop Wander Franco, the team announced on Sunday. Franco did not participate in Sunday’s game against the Cleveland team, resulting in a 9-2 loss for the Rays.
In a statement released by the Rays, they acknowledged their awareness of the circulating social media posts related to Franco. The team expressed their seriousness in addressing the situation and assured that they are in close contact with Major League Baseball as they conduct their due diligence.
The nature of the social media posts in question was not disclosed by Tampa Bay.
As a result of Franco’s absence from the game, Osleivis Basabe was given the opportunity to start at shortstop, marking his major league debut. Basabe performed admirably, going 1 for 3 with a double. The 22-year-old received the news of his promotion during his game Saturday night with Triple-A Durham.
Franco initially started the game on Sunday, but left in the fifth inning. Coincidentally, the Rays had planned a promotional event called the Wander Franco Snapback Hat for fans aged 14 and under on the same day.
Following the game, Rays’ manager Kevin Cash was questioned about Franco’s absence and any potential issues surrounding it, other than it being a regular day off. Cash responded with a simple “No.” When pressed further about the speculation, Cash declined to comment, stating that the day off was planned.
This is not the first time Franco has faced disciplinary action by the Rays. In late June, the young star was benched for two games due to his handling of frustrating situations and his behavior as a teammate.
Tampa Bay signed Franco, who has been named an All-Star this season, to an impressive $182 million, 11-year contract in November 2021. The deal also includes a team option for 2033, potentially bringing the total worth to $223 million.
Throughout the season, Franco has showcased his talent, boasting a .281 batting average with 17 home runs, 58 RBIs, and a successful 30 stolen base attempts out of 40 in 112 games.
MLB will continue to investigate the social media posts involving Franco as the Rays and the league aim to determine the appropriate course of action.
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AP MLB