The MLB is set to determine whether MLB Wander Franco will be placed on administrative leave as allegations of an inappropriate relationship with an underage girl are under scrutiny.
Tampa Bay Rays’ standout shortstop, MLB Wander Franco, faces a pivotal juncture as his future on the baseball field hangs in the balance
The Rays initially sidelined their young star, shifting him to the restricted list for a one-week period, a decision endorsed by both MLB Wander Franco and MLB. This occurred before the team embarked on a week-long road trip. While there’s a possibility of extending MLB Wander Franco’s restricted list to stay in agreement with the Rays, the MLB might intervene, instituting administrative leave until the investigation concludes. Such leave can be imposed by MLB for seven days without requiring MLB Wander Franco‘s or the union’s consent.
To extend administrative leave for another week, MLB must present reasonable grounds, and union approval is mandatory after two weeks. This protocol mirrors the approach taken with Dodgers pitcher Trevor Bauer’s case, resulting in a 194-game suspension following allegations of assault in 2021. While the remote chance remains that MLB Wander Franco could resume play on Tuesday, the severity of the allegations makes it improbable.
Social media posts surfaced a week ago, implicating MLB Wander Franco in an inappropriate relationship with a minor
The Dominican Republic authorities are also investigating MLB Wander Franco regarding two minors, prompted by a 17-year-old girl’s complaint, as reported by the Dominican newspaper Diario Libre. Franco has enlisted legal representation in both the Dominican Republic and the United States. Angel Dario Tejada Fabal, a prosecutor, emphasized the sensitivity of the case due to the involvement of a minor.
In the Dominican Republic, consensual relationships between adults and those under 18 are forbidden. The ongoing investigation, managed by a unit specialized in minors and gender violence, underscores its gravity. Despite MLB Wander Franco’s denial of the allegations on Instagram, he has refrained from making further public statements.
At 22, MLB Wander Franco, holding an 11-year, $182 million contract, is celebrated as one of baseball’s premier young talents, hitting .281 with 17 home runs and a .819 OPS this season. Renowned for his defensive prowess, he has faced maturity challenges, including a suspension for emotional outbursts. Recent actions by the Rays, such as the removal of Franco’s highlights from TV ads and promotions, suggest a growing distance between the player and the team.
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