The Tampa Bay Rays have been without shortstop Wander Franco, arguably their best player, since mid-August 2023.
The infielder was placed on administrative leave after allegations about his involvement in underage relationships surfaced.
Dominican Republic authorities started an investigation on the matter, which still hasn’t finished.
On Thursday, MLB insider Jeff Passan revealed that the league has extended his administrative leave until June 1.
“News: Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco has been placed on administrative leave through June 1 per an agreement between MLB and the MLBPA, a source tells ESPN. Franco’s status could change before then depending on proceedings in the criminal case in the Dominican Republic,” he tweeted.
News: Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco has been placed on administrative leave through June 1 per an agreement between MLB and the MLBPA, a source tells ESPN. Franco’s status could change before then depending on proceedings in the criminal case in the Dominican Republic.
In theory, he won’t be eligible to play until June 1, but that is subject to change and will entirely depend on what the Dominican authorities and then MLB and the Players’ Association determine.
Franco hasn’t been charged in his native country, but the accusations are disturbing.
Dominican authorities have required him to check in once per month with court officials until the end of June, unless his case comes to a resolution before then.
Franco was having an excellent season last year until he was placed on administrative leave.
He was hitting .281/.344/.475 with 17 home runs, 30 stolen bases, and a .819 OPS when the news came.
His absence has affected the Rays’ ceiling, and they have been forced to alter their plans to get replacements.
All of that, however, is now secondary: the well-being of the alleged victims and a fair resolution are now the most important things in this case.