Rays shortstop Wander Franco officially charged with sexual abuse and exploitation in the Dominican Republic

Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco has been charged in the Dominican Republic with sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of a minor. Wander is on trial and could face a maximum sentence of five years behind bars if convicted.

ESPN’s Jeff Passan relayed the update (via Juan Arturo Recio), casting further doubt on Franco’s future in the MLB as he received the largest contract in Rays franchise history.

Franco has been on leave since August 2023 after allegations surfaced that the All-Star player exploited a 14-year-old girl in the Dominican Republic.

Wander Franco celebrates after hitting a 2-run home run against the Yankees. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

Tampa abruptly cut Franco from the lineup before a game against the Cleveland Guardians on Aug. 13. The 23-year-old star shortstop was not allowed to travel with the team to San Francisco later that day to participate in the ensuing series. Rays general manager Kevin Cash called it an “off day” for Franco.

READ: Rays place Wander Franco on leave while investigation continues

The allegations surfaced on social media and Franco was placed on leave a few days after the news broke.

Franco went on Instagram Live and denied the allegations, along with teammate Jose Siri. Since the initial allegations, two other girls in the Dominican Republic have made similar allegations.

ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA – APRIL 8: Wander Franco #5 of the Tampa Bay Rays looks on from the dugout during the third inning against the Oakland Athletics at Tropicana Field on April 8, 2023 in St. Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)

Franco, who signed an 11-year, $182 million contract with Tampa Bay in 2022, was accused of paying the underage girl’s mother with money and a car for her consent.

The Santa Domingo Public Prosecutor’s Office arrested Franco in January 2024 for failing to attend a meeting. In December, raids were carried out on Franco’s homes in the Dominican Republic. Franco’s wife was present during a raid on their residence in Villa Real. Franco and his wife have two children together.

MLB extended Franco’s leave through July 14 and continued its investigation into the troubled player.

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