Additional details have been emerging regarding the allegations of Wander Franco‘s interactions with a minor.
The Tampa Bay Rays shortstop is set to sit out the entirety of the Rays‘ west coast road trip after being placed on the restricted list due to ongoing investigations by MLB into claims he engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a 14-year-old individual.
Franco‘s presence on the restricted list will continue for the duration of the club’s six-game road trip, which commenced on Monday evening.
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The investigation into Wander Franco
In a report published on Tuesday by the Associated Press, it was revealed that Dominican Republic authorities are conducting an inquiry into Franco concerning an alleged connection with a minor. This was confirmed by the attorney general’s office.
In a new development, photos have surfaced apparently depicting Franco in the same vicinity as the young teenager in question. The photos captured a moment where he allegedly appeared to be kissing the alleged minor.
The team’s road trip began in San Francisco on Monday evening and is scheduled to conclude on August 20.
Franco was not part of the team’s travel plans on Sunday night when the Rays departed for California.
While he was absent from the lineup against Cleveland on Sunday, Rays manager Kevin Cash attributed his absence to a planned day off.
“We support any steps taken by the league to better understand the situation,” the Rays said in a statement.
“Out of respect for all parties involved, we have no further comments at this time.”