Rays Shortstop Wander Franco Charged with Sexual Abuse

Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco, a former top prospect and MLB All-Star, has been formally charged with sexual abuse, exploitation of a minor, and human trafficking in the Dominican Republic, which could lead to significant prison sentences. The charges involve allegations of a relationship with a 14-year-old girl and payments to her and her mother. MLB has placed Franco on the restricted list, ending his pay and service time accrual, while investigations by both the league and Dominican authorities continue. Despite signing a lucrative contract extension in 2021, Franco's future in baseball is now uncertain due to the serious nature of the charges against him.