Major League Baseball has taken action in response to allegations involving Tampa Bay Rays’ star shortstop Wander Franco, placing him on indefinite paid administrative leave while investigations into accusations of inappropriate relationships with underage individuals.
Insider Hector Gomez revealed that a minor filed a complaint against Franco in the Dominican Republic, adding to the ongoing investigation.
In a statement, MLB clarified, “The administrative leave, effective immediately, is not disciplinary under the Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy. We will comment further at the appropriate time.”
Wander Franco, as expected, placed on administrative leave pic.twitter.com/X9eZmL8RbO
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) August 22, 2023
MLB and the MLBPA have officially placed Wander Franco on administrative leave “until further notice,” a non-disciplinary measure during which he will still receive pay and service accrual.
Wander Franco's administrative leave has now been made official by MLB and the MLBPA. Franco, according to the release, is on leave "until further notice." The league's release notes that admin leave is not disciplinary. Franco will continue to be paid and accrue service on it.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) August 22, 2023
Franco’s absence from a recent game, coupled with his departure from the dugout during the fifth inning, coincided with the emergence of these allegations. This happened on the same day as a kids’ event at which children under 14 could receive gifts.
As a 2023 American League All-Star, Franco was enjoying a standout season with a .281 batting average, 17 home runs, and 30 stolen bases. These allegations arose amid his success, via social media posts.
Under contract with the Rays through 2032, with a club option for 2033, Franco’s absence will undoubtedly impact the team’s ongoing successful season.