The young superstar from the Tampa Bay Rays, Wander Franco, was released from prison in the Dominican Republic after a long and difficult legal fight. (Photo: bleacherreport)
Tampa Bay Rays’ rising star Wander Franco has been released from prison in the Dominican Republic, but uncertainty clouds his future on the field.
The young superstar from the Tampa Bay Rays, Wander Franco, was released from prison in the Dominican Republic after a long and difficult legal fight. His playing future is still uncertain, though, because he is accused of having inappropriate relationships with a child.
This comes after Franco’s court appearance, where he was accused of sexually exploiting and seducing a child. A two million Dominican pesos (about $35,000 USD) financial guarantee was needed to get him released, which cast a shadow over his once-promising future.
Accusations against Franco include a four-month relationship with a 14-year-old girl, with the girl’s mother’s permission. Multiple reports say he made $1,700 a month for seven months and bought a car to make the relationship easier, which led to him being put on MLB’s limited list.
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The fallout from these accusations has ended Franco’s season, the Rays’ hopes of making the playoffs, and the 22-year-old’s once-skyrocketing career. Something big has happened for the young All-Star, whose $182 million deal is in danger because of the ongoing scandal.
As Franco’s MLB future stays unclear, concerns are raised about how it will affect the Tampa Bay Rays. The team’s ability to compete in the very tough American League East could be greatly affected if he is unable to play in 2024.
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