Everything to Know About MLB’s Administrative Leave Amid Wander Franco Investigation

The league is investigating social media posts alleging that the Tampa Bay shortstop had an inappropriate relationship with a minor.

MLB announced Tuesday that Rays shortstop Wander Franco would be placed on administrative leave.

Franco was placed on the restricted list on Aug.14, when MLB began investigating social media posts alleging that he had an inappropriate relationship with a minor. Authorities in Franco’s native Dominican Republic have also initiated an investigation into the matter. (No charges have been filed.) Franco last appeared in a game for the Rays on Aug.12.

“Per an agreement between MLB and the MLBPA, Wander Franco has been placed on Administrative Leave until further notice as MLB continues its ongoing investigation,” a league statement read. “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.”

Here’s what to know:

What is administrative leave?

The league may place a player on administrative leave while it investigates claims of domestic violence, sexual assault or child abuse made against him. This means the player cannot appear in games and will be replaced on the 40-man roster, but he will continue to be paid his full salary and accrue service time. (Technically, it may be possible for the player to participate in “non-public practices or workouts,” but that requires an official request by the team that must then be granted by the commissioner’s office.) This has been the case since the league and players’ union adopted their joint domestic violence policy in 2015.

How long does administrative leave last?

In Franco’s case, MLB has said the leave is “until further notice.” Typically, however, administrative leave is for seven days, with the ability to be extended while the league continues an investigation. (The players’ association must grant approval for a player’s administrative leave to be extended.)

Is administrative leave considered disciplinary?

No, and it has no bearing on any punishment that might be handed down after the league investigation is complete. The commissioner’s office can also decide to defer punishment until after any related legal proceedings are complete.

What have the Rays said about the investigation?

The Rays released a brief statement shortly after MLB’s announcement Tuesday: “We support Major League Baseball’s decision to place Wander Franco on Administration Leave. The Tampa Bay Rays are dedicated to upholding high standards of integrity both on and off the field. We appreciate the understanding and patience of our fans and supporters as this process unfolds. We will have no further statements on this matter until MLB completes its process.” In the days since Franco was first placed on the restricted list, the team has stopped using his name and likeness in promotional materials.