The Tampa Bay Rays have been with out shortstop Wander Franco, arguably their greatest participant, since mid-August 2023.
The infielder was positioned on administrative go away after allegations about his involvement in underage relationships surfaced.
Dominican Republic authorities began an investigation on the matter, which nonetheless hasn’t completed.
On Thursday, MLB insider Jeff Passan revealed that the league has prolonged his administrative go away till June 1.
“Information: Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco has been positioned on administrative go away by June 1 per an settlement between MLB and the MLBPA, a supply tells ESPN. Franco’s standing may change earlier than then relying on proceedings within the prison case within the Dominican Republic,” he tweeted.
Information: Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco has been positioned on administrative go away by June 1 per an settlement between MLB and the MLBPA, a supply tells ESPN. Franco’s standing may change earlier than then relying on proceedings within the prison case within the Dominican Republic.
In principle, he received’t be eligible to play till June 1, however that’s topic to vary and can totally depend upon what the Dominican authorities after which MLB and the Gamers’ Affiliation decide.
Franco hasn’t been charged in his native nation, however the accusations are disturbing.
Dominican authorities have required him to test in as soon as monthly with court docket officers till the top of June, until his case involves a decision earlier than then.
Franco was having a wonderful season final yr till he was positioned on administrative go away.
He was hitting .281/.344/.475 with 17 dwelling runs, 30 stolen bases, and a .819 OPS when the information got here.
His absence has affected the Rays’ ceiling, they usually have been pressured to change their plans to get replacements.
All of that, nonetheless, is now secondary: the well-being of the alleged victims and a good decision at the moment are an important issues on this case.