Tampa Bay Rays' Wander Franco Placed on Restricted List as Controversy Continues
The Tampa Bay Rays and Wander Franco have mutually agreed that the star shortstop will go on the restricted list amid recent allegations, the team announced Monday.
ESPN's Jeff Passan already reported that Franco did not travel with the team for their game against the San Francisco Giants on Monday. Franco will take leave from the Rays for the remainder of their West Coast road trip – which lasts until Aug. 20 – according to the team.
In most cases, players on the restricted list are not paid.
Several posts started to circulate on Twitter and Instagram on Sunday alleging Franco was involved in an inappropriate relationship with a minor in the Dominican Republic. Franco was not in Tampa Bay's lineup that afternoon against the Cleveland Guardians, but manager Kevin Cash said after the game that it was a previously scheduled off day for the 22-year-old infielder.
Sunday's game at Tropicana Field also featured a promotional giveaway, which was a free Wander Franco snapback hat for every fan 14 years old or younger.
MLB has launched an investigation into the social media posts about Franco, per Passan, and the Rays organization claims to be cooperating with said investigation.
"We support any steps taken by the league to better understand the situation," the Rays said in a statement. "Out of respect for all parties involved, we have no further comments at this time."
Franco placed third in AL Rookie of the Year voting in 2021, and he made his first All-Star Game in 2023. In 112 appearances this season, Franco is hitting .281 with 17 home runs, 58 RBI, 30 stolen bases, an .819 OPS and a team-high 5.4 WAR.
The shortstop signed an 11-year, $182 million extension with the Rays in November 2021.
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