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

A judge in the Dominican Republic ruled on Thursday that the evidence presented against Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco merits a trial, according to multiple reports. Franco is charged with human trafficking, sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of a minor. The charges stem from the 23-year-old's relationship with a then-14-year-old girl that started in December of 2022, when Franco was 21. If he is convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison. No date for the trial has been set for Franco, who obviously has been on the restricted list all year and hasn't played since August of 2023. Judge Pascual Valenzuela "repeatedly pointed out to him that the decision is not an opinion of guilt," but that the evidence is considered worthy of the case moving to the trial stage. The Rays still owe Franco $172 million from the 11-year, $182 million deal he signed after his debut season in 2021.

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.