The prosecution in the Dominican Republic has presented what they claim to be “convincing evidence” against Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco in a sexual abuse case that is scheduled to begin trial on Monday. According to a news release from the country’s attorney general, Franco is accused of engaging in a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl at the time.
Franco, who has been absent from Major League Baseball since August 2023, was placed on administrative leave by the league after making his first All-Star team. Subsequently, he was moved to the restricted list without pay following the filing of charges in July 2024.
Originally set for trial in December 2024, the proceedings were delayed due to the unavailability of key witnesses. The charges against Franco include sexual and psychological abuse, with the more severe accusations of sexual exploitation of a minor and human trafficking being reduced.
In addition to facing legal action in the Dominican Republic, Franco is also under investigation by MLB for potential violations of its policies on domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. Despite the allegations, Franco’s lawyer maintains his innocence, stating that there is no substantial case against him.
The 24-year-old player remains optimistic about his future in baseball, asserting that his career is not over. However, his time away from the sport has been marred by controversy, including an incident where he was found with an illegal gun in his vehicle by Dominican authorities. He was released under supervision after demonstrating that the gun was legally owned.
Further complicating the situation, documents suggest that Franco, through his mother, transferred money to the mother of the minor involved in the case. The mother has been charged with money laundering for accepting payment after learning of the relationship between Franco and her daughter.
Despite the legal challenges he faces, Franco signed a lucrative 11-year, $182 million contract in November 2021. As the trial unfolds, the outcome will determine the future of his career in professional baseball.
