3rd Minor Accuses Wander Franco Of Inappropriate Relationship: Report

ST. PETERSBURG, FL — A third underage girl in the Dominican Republic accused Tampa Bay Rays’ Wander Franco of having an inappropriate relationship with her, ESPN reported.

A special prosecutor is investigating two formal complaints against the 22-year-old shortstop. The first complaint, made by a 17-year-old, was filed against Franco July 17. The second girl’s age hasn’t been reported.

Before that, viral social media posts accused the player of having a physical relationship with a girl in the Dominican Republic who was under the age of 18, which is the country’s age of consent.

Franco denied the accusations in an Instagram Live video.

• Also Read: Rays' Wander Franco Accused Of Relationships With 2 Underage Girls

After the initial allegations, the Rays placed Franco on its restricted list on Aug. 14. Major League Baseball has also opened an investigation into the claims.

MLB later put the player on administrative leave on Aug. 22, the league’s website said.

“Per an agreement between MLB and the MLBPA, Wander Franco has been placed on Administrative Leave until further notice as MLB continues its ongoing investigation. 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.

The Rays also issued a statement about Franco, saying, “We support Major League Baseball’s decision to place Wander Franco on administrative leave. 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.”

Being placed on administrative leave isn’t considered “punitive,” MLB added.

The Rays continued to pay Franco his $2 million salary while he was on the restricted list. He signed an 11-year, $182 million guaranteed extension when he signed with the team following the 2021 season.