MLB decides Wander Franco’s fate: Star out ‘until further notice’ as it investigates disturbing allegations
Embattled Rays shortstop Wander Franco has been placed on administrative leave “until further notice” as MLB investigates claims of alleged inappropriate relationships with underage women.
MLB and the MLBPA came to the agreement, according to a release from the league.
“The administrative leave, effective immediately, is not disciplinary under the Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy,” MLB said in the statement.
The move is the strongest sign Franco could miss the remainder of the season — and perhaps longer — depending on the outcome of MLB’s investigation.
The Rays said in a statement they side with MLB’s decision.
“We support Major League Baseball’s decision to place Wander Franco on Administration Leave,” the statement said, according to the Tampa Bay Times.
“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.”
Franco, in his third season with the Rays, has not played since Aug. 12.
Franco has denied the claims, but the Rays have not played him since the allegations came to light and they placed him on the restricted list on Aug. 14.
A player is removed from a team’s roster during administrative leave while MLB investigates what it considers a “covered act” under its joint domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse policy, according to the 2022 collective bargaining agreement.
This administrative leave does not have the usual seven-day limit under the policy and is open-ended. Franco has the option to challenge the ruling in front of a Grievance Arbitration Panel, per the CBA.
The shortstop will continue to receive his salary and accrue service time during his time on leave.
He signed a Rays record 11-year, $188 million contract extension last season that takes him through the 2032 season.
He is in the second year of that extension.
It’s possible Franco could miss the remainder of the season — and perhaps longer — depending on the outcome of MLB’s investigation.
Former Dodgers pitcher Trevor Bauer received a 324-game suspension after being placed on administrative leave for violating the league’s domestic violence policy.
The Rays have begun the process of removing imagery involving Franco from around Tropicana Field, replacing banners and wraps featuring his likeness, according to the Tampa Bay Times.
Tampa Bay (75-51) once seemed like a lock for the playoffs, but now trails the Orioles by three games in the AL East and is just 5 ¹/₂ games clear of a playoff spot.
Franco accumulated 5.5 Baseball Reference WAR this season with 17 homers, 58 RBIs and 30 steals.