Wander Franco's Stats, Metrics, Game Logs, Projections & Rankings

Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco has been formally charged with sexual abuse and sexual exploitation against a minor. There was already enough doubt surrounding the possibility of Franco ever being able to play in the major leagues again, but this development should all but seal the deal in that regard. The 23-year-old former top prospect's fantasy stock in dynasty leagues has officially evaporated, meaning he can be safely jettisoned to waiver wires across all formats wherever he may have been stashed for those holding out hope he may have been innocent. Franco, a 2023 All-Star, had his entire career ahead of him and previously signed an 11-year deal worth $182 million with the Rays through 2032. If his MLB career has indeed come to an abrupt close, Franco slashed .282/.340/.454 with 30 home runs, 130 RBI, 164 runs scored, and 40 stolen bases over 265 games in Tampa Bay.

Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco has had his stay on administrative leave extended to July 14. Franco's original had an end date of June 1. Franco has been on leave since last August with allegations of having an inappropriate relationship with a minor. The extension allows more time for any developments in his case, while he will continue to receive $2 million in salary from the Rays. Authorities have until July 5 to formally charge Franco and there should be plenty of development until then with the case. Franco was one of the young stars on the rise in the big-leagues in 2023, but his off the field allegations have likely ended his career.

The Tampa Bay Rays have placed shortstop Wander Franco on administrative leave through June 1 under an agreement between the MLB and the MLB Players Association. Franco has been away from the team since last August, when his relationship with a minor first surfaced. There is no administrative leave in the offseason, which is why Thursday's Opening Day is when this move took place, and it also takes the former All-Star off of the 40-man roster, although he is still being paid while on leave. On June 1, the two parties will meet again to decide whether to extend his leave or place him on the restricted list, depending on the results of the investigation in the Dominican Republic. It's presumed that once that investigation is complete, MLB will conduct its own investigation, and Franco will likely be suspended.