Rays shortstop Wander Franco put on administrative leave as MLB continues investigation

Major League Baseball has placed Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco on paid administrative leave as it continues an investigation into allegations that he had an inappropriate relationship with an underage girl.

"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," MLB said in a statement issued Tuesday morning.

MLB can impose administrative leave without Franco's or the union’s approval for seven days, but it would then have to prove reasonable cause to extend that period – as it did in the case of former Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Trevor Bauer. (Bauer was accused of assaulting a woman in 2021, and was eventually suspended for 194 games.)

In a statement of their own on Tuesday, the Rays expressed support for MLB's decision: "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."

Last week, the Rays placed their young star on the restricted list for its recently completed road trip – which Franco agreed to and MLB approved.

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Franco, a 2023 American League All-Star, was having his best season as a major leaguer, hitting .281 with 17 home runs and 30 stolen bases, when the allegations surfaced in a series of social media posts.

However, he was suspended two games earlier this season by the Rays for emotional outbursts and "not being the best teammate," Rays manager Kevin Cash said. He also was involved in a scuffle with teammate Randy Arozarena.

Franco, 22, is currently being investigated by authorities in the Dominican Republic for possible crimes involving at least two minors after a 17-year-old girl filed a complaint against Franco, according to the Dominican newspaper Diario Libre. Franco denied the allegations on his Instagram account last Sunday but has yet to speak publicly or make a statement.

In the second year of an 11-year, $182 million contract with the Rays, Franco will continue to be paid as long as he's on administrative leave.