Wander Franco Arrested in Dominican Republic

Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco was arrested in the Dominican Republic following an altercation involving firearms in a parking lot, according to police sources and multiple reports. Franco and an unnamed woman were held for questioning after the incident in San Juan de la Maguana. Franco, 23, is already facing serious charges in a separate case involving the sexual abuse and exploitation of a minor, with a trial set for December 12. He is currently on indefinite administrative leave from Major League Baseball and barred from leaving the Dominican Republic, though he can travel within the country. The case has sparked both legal and MLB investigations, and if convicted, Franco could face up to 20 years in prison. Despite his legal troubles, Franco remains under contract with the Rays, having signed an 11-year, $182 million extension in 2021.