Wander Franco, the shortstop for the Rays, has received a two-year suspended prison sentence after being found guilty of sexually abusing a minor in the Dominican Republic.
This decision casts doubt on the future of the 24-year-old MLB player.
Currently, he is on MLB’s restricted list and hasn’t played since August 12, 2023. There’s a chance, perhaps a strong one, that he may not return to the majors.
Franco signed an impressive 11-year deal with the Rays in 2021, valued at up to $223 million, which includes options for the 2033 season.
According to Sportico, the ruling raises concerns about his eligibility to enter the United States, given his criminal history abroad.
It appears he might need to stay in the U.S. to keep his visa valid during the period from 2021 to 2023, and the recent verdict could hinder his ability to secure a new visa.
ESPN noted that it’s “highly likely” Franco will face difficulties in obtaining a visa, keeping him on the restricted list.
The U.S. State Department has the authority to deny visa applications based on criminal backgrounds, especially concerning offenses like sexual abuse.
MLB is still looking into the matter and could impose discipline on Franco; he is not receiving pay while on the restricted list.
Under the league’s joint domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse policies, there is potential for disqualification. However, Franco would have the option to appeal such a ruling.
Additionally, in June, he faced charges for illegal firearm possession in the Dominican Republic, with ongoing cases as reported by ESPN.
MLB released a statement highlighting their commitment to addressing these serious issues, acknowledging the verdict in Franco’s trial, and stating they will complete their investigation at an appropriate time.
The Rays might explore the possibility of voiding Franco’s contract based on a conduct clause, particularly since he was found guilty of sexually abusing a minor.
Yet, as Sportico pointed out, this situation could be complicated. For instance, the Padres faced a legal battle in 1987 after pitcher Lamarr Hoyt served a 45-day sentence, and they ultimately lost.
While Tampa Bay has the option to release Franco, it’s likely that such a move would follow any prison sentence and league discipline.
They might even consider negotiating a settlement for his release.
Should Franco become a free agent, it remains uncertain whether any teams would be interested in signing him.
This gives a nod to the situation surrounding pitcher Trevor Bauer, who hasn’t found a team after a lengthy suspension stemming from serious allegations, despite having not pleaded guilty to any crime. There’s speculation that he’s been blackballed by the league.
