Major League Baseball (MLB) has placed Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco on paid administrative leave. Franco is under multiple investigations for relationships he allegedly had with underage girls in his home country of the Dominican Republic.
“Per an agreement between MLB and the [MLB Players Association], Wander Franco has been placed on Administrative Leave until further notice as MLB continues its ongoing investigation,” MLB said in a statement. “The administrative leave, effective immediately, is not disciplinary under the Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy. We will comment further at the appropriate time.”
According to ESPN, Franco can challenge the MLB’s decision, but until then, he will be removed from the team’s roster as the investigations into his sexual misconduct continue. Franco is essentially off the team “until further notice.” But he will be receiving service time.
“We support Major League Baseball’s decision to place Wander Franco on Administration Leave,” the Rays said in a statement. “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.”
Last week, MLB announced it was investigating allegations Franco had an inappropriate relationship with a minor. The office of the attorney general in the Dominican Republic also confirmed that it was investigating the same allegations.
According to the Associated Press, a prosecutor in the Dominican Republic said the investigation is being handled by a division specializing in minors and gender violence. Diario Libre reported a 17-year-old girl filed a complaint with the attorney general against Franco in July.