The Tampa Bay Rays have confirmed that Major League Baseball is currently investigating “social media posts” concerning their star shortstop, Wander Franco. As a result, Franco did not play in Sunday’s game, and he will also miss upcoming matches against the Giants and Angels.
During Sunday’s home game against the Cleveland Guardians, Franco was initially in the dugout but later left. Unfortunately, the Rays ended up losing the game with a score of 9-2. It’s worth noting that Sunday was supposed to be Wander Franco snapback hat night in Tampa.
The Rays released a statement on Sunday, acknowledging the circulating social media posts about Franco. They expressed their commitment to taking this situation seriously and are actively cooperating with Major League Baseball’s investigation.
Following the game, Manager Kevin Cash addressed the matter, stating that Franco simply had a day off and dismissing any further speculation. He added that the day off was purely because he needed a break.
On Monday, the Rays announced that they and Franco have mutually agreed that he will go on the Restricted List and take leave from the club during the current road trip. The team expressed their full support for the league’s efforts to gain a better understanding of the situation and stated that they would refrain from making any further comments.
Multiple sources, including MLB.com, The Athletic, and The Tampa Bay Times, have reported that the investigation revolves around social media posts alleging Franco’s involvement in an inappropriate sexual relationship.
Franco himself responded to these allegations in a video posted on social media, dismissing them and criticizing those who spread such rumors. He expressed his frustration, emphasizing that people should find more productive ways to spend their time.
At only 22 years old, Wander Franco is currently in his third season with the Rays and was named an All-Star for the first time this year. He boasts impressive statistics, with a batting average of .281, 17 home runs, and 30 stolen bases.
It’s worth noting that Franco has already faced disciplinary action earlier this season when he was benched for two games in June due to unspecified reasons. At the time, Cash commented that Franco had not always handled his frustrations in the manner expected of a teammate.
In 2021, the Rays made a significant investment in Franco’s future by signing him to an 11-year, $182 million contract, which set a record as the richest deal ever for a player with less than one year of experience in the majors.
Despite recent challenges, the Rays have had a strong season and currently sit in second place in the American League East, trailing the Baltimore Orioles by three games. However, they remain in a favorable position to secure one of the American League’s three wild card spots.
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