Former MLB Star Wander Franco Found Guilty Sexual Abuse Minor

Wander Franco, the suspended Tampa Bay Rays shortstop, was found guilty of sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl in the Dominican Republic and received a two-year suspended sentence. The 24-year-old was accused of having a four-month relationship with the minor and transferring money to her mother to consent to the relationship, who was also convicted and sentenced to 10 years in prison for sexually trafficking her daughter. Franco signed an 11-year, $182 million contract with the Rays in 2021 but has been on MLB's restricted list since August 2023, which means he is not on the active roster and is not receiving a salary while the league investigates the case. MLB has stated it is aware of the verdict and will conclude its investigation at the appropriate time, highlighting its commitment through a collectively bargained policy on domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. Franco’s conviction complicates his ability to obtain a U.S. work visa, further impacting his professional baseball career. The trial included testimony from 31 witnesses and detailed evidence establishing the manipulation of the minor by Franco.