Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco has been accused of sexual abuse and exploitation of a minor. The allegations surfaced after social media posts and a complaint filed in July. Franco was placed on administrative leave by Major League Baseball while they investigated the situation.
The Rays started removing images of Franco at Tropicana Field and stopped selling his merchandise at the team store in response to the allegations. It seems unlikely that Franco will play again, especially since he last played on August 12.
Despite being an All-Star last season and signing a lucrative contract extension, Franco’s future in baseball is now uncertain. The 20-year-old Dominican player was arrested after police raided two of his homes in the Dominican Republic. He was released under the condition of meeting with local authorities monthly.
Prosecutors claim that Franco referred to the minor as “my girl” and acknowledged the risks involved in their relationship. He allegedly paid the girl to keep quiet about their interactions, and the girl’s mother is also facing charges for money laundering related to gifts she received from Franco.
The relationship between Franco and the girl, who is now 15 years old, lasted for four months. Franco reportedly gave the girl a significant amount of money and bought her mother a new car. The documents suggest that Franco paid the girl around $46,000 in July and August.
The situation has raised serious concerns about Franco’s future in baseball and his legal troubles. It remains to be seen how the case will unfold and what consequences Franco will face if found guilty of the allegations. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.