Tampa Bay Rays sit Wander Franco amid MLB investigation into social media allegations. What do we know?
As MLB begins an investigation into allegations made against their star on social media, the Tampa Bay Rays have decided to temporarily remove him from the roster.
Though there has been no official word on whether allegations against the Rays shortstop are true, we do know that the league is currently conducting an investigation into his conduct. In light of that, one could say that it makes sense that the franchise has chosen to remove him from the spotlight while it all plays out.
Rays choose to sit Wander Franco as MLB investigation begins
You may have seen our previous report in which we confirmed that MLB was set to investigate the Tampa Bay Rays shortstop, Wander Franco, in connection with posts that were made on social media which alleged that he had an inappropriate relationship with a minor. Indeed, Franco who was present during his team’s 9-2 loss on Sunday to the Cleveland Guardians, left the dugout midgame, an act that only furthered speculation, something that head coach Kevin Cash was forced to address post-game. “I’m aware of the speculation,” Cash said. “I’m not going to comment any further on that. The day off was because of a [scheduled] day off.”
This of course brings us to the present, where according to ESPN, the Rays have taken the decision to leave the star shortstop home as the team travels to San Francisco for its away series against the Giants. To be clear, MLB is yet to verify or dismiss the validity of the aforementioned posts, however, it appears that the franchise has decided to act regardless. “Tampa Bay shortstop Wander Franco did not travel on the team plane to San Francisco, where the Rays will start a series with the Giants tomorrow, sources tell ESPN. The Rays earlier said MLB is doing “due diligence” concerning social media posts from earlier today about Franco.” Interestingly, the report also notes that “MLB is looking into the social media posts and has yet to verify the information. This early in the process, without confirmed facts, Franco could be placed on the restricted list or administrative leave. The Rays, when asked about Franco not being on the plane, declined comment.”
This is a blow for the Rays
Aside from the obvious stain that such allegations leave on both the player and the franchise - whether true or not - the reality is Franco is one of if not the best shortstop in MLB right now. The 22-year-old was the No. 1 overall prospect in 2021 before signing an 11-year contract worth $182 million in November of that year, a deal with a team option for 2033 that could be worth as much as $223 million. Franco was selected to his first All-Star game this season on the back of .281/.344/.475 across 112 games. Regarding how he’s done so far this season, the Dominican native has been averaging .281 at the plate with 17 home runs and 58 RBI, which is to say his absence will most definitely be felt.