MLB Places Rays’ Wander Franco on Administrative Leave

The Tampa Bay shortstop is under investigation for an alleged relationship with a minor.

Rays shortstop Wander Franco has been placed on administrative leave by Major League Baseball until further notice as the league continues its investigation into his alleged relationship with a minor, the league announced Tuesday.

“The administrative leave, effective immediately, is not disciplinary under the Joint Domestic Violence Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy,” the statement read. “We will comment further at the appropriate time.”

On Aug. 14, the league launched its investigation after multiple social media posts on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, alleged that Franco had been involved in an improper relationship with a minor. He subsequently was placed on MLB’s restricted list.

At this point, Franco has not been ruled out for potential postseason competition, according to Evan Drellich of The Athletic.

The Rays are scheduled to begin a three-game home series on Tuesday against the Rockies, followed by another three-game home series against the Yankees. Franco did not travel with the Rays on their last road trip, which included series against the Giants and Angels. 

Through 112 games this season, Franco is batting .281 with 17 homers, 58 RBIs and 30 stolen bases. He also earned his first All-Star nod this season.

The Rays released a statement early Tuesday afternoon saying the team agreed with MLB’s decision to place Franco on administrative leave.

Statement from The Tampa Bay Rays: https://t.co/b5NYMuUj2y pic.twitter.com/2GMQbqrd7S

— Rays Communications (@RaysPR) August 22, 2023