Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco was arrested in the Dominican Republic on Monday following allegations of engaging in relationships with minors. The 22-year-old appeared at the Puerto Plata Prosecutor's Office accompanied by his two lawyers, according to ESPN Deportes. This came after Franco failed to appear for his initial summoning last Thursday at the Specialized Prosecutor's Office for Children and Adolescents in Santo Domingo.
Franco's arrest was not directly related to any progress in the investigation but rather for his failure to attend the meeting with authorities. Prior to his summoning, Dominican Republic authorities conducted searches at Franco's home in Villa Real and his mother's home in Bani. The investigation began last July when the first complaint against Franco was filed. A second formal complaint has also been made, and a third relationship is currently under investigation, although no formal complaint has been filed.
The mother of one of the minors involved in the accusations has also been detained, according to Listin Diario. As of now, no criminal charges have been filed against Franco. In response to the situation, Major League Baseball placed Franco on administrative leave until further notice in August. The Tampa Bay Rays issued a statement supporting MLB's decision and expressed their dedication to upholding high standards of integrity.
Despite the allegations, Franco appeared on Instagram Live to deny them, stating that people were spreading rumors without knowing the truth. Meanwhile, his arrest in the Dominican Republic occurred after a three-hour interview with prosecutors. Authorities must present him before a judge within 24 hours, as required by Dominican law.
Franco, who received an 11-year, $182 million contract extension from the Rays in 2021, last played for the team on August 12. His arrest comes as MLB continues to investigate the allegations of inappropriate relationships with minors. At least two people have filed legal action against Franco, and sources indicate that he is being investigated for a potential relationship with a third minor.
The Rays, who have shown support for MLB's investigation, have not provided further comments on the matter until the league completes its process. Franco's arrest raises concerns about his future in the sport, as he was an All-Star for the first time this season and signed a lucrative contract extension in November 2021. The deal, which includes a team option in 2033, could be worth up to $233 million.
As the investigation unfolds, the baseball world awaits further developments regarding Franco's legal situation and the potential impact on his career.
