Wander Franco Trial Delayed Until September 26

The preliminary hearing for Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco, charged with sexual abuse, exploitation of a minor, and human trafficking, was delayed until September 26. The delay was requested by Franco's defense team due to not being notified of all the evidence, and the minor's mother also requested a delay. Franco, who is accused of abusing a 14-year-old girl, has been under investigation since August 2023 and has not played since then, being placed on MLB's restricted list. Documents reveal Franco transferred money to the minor's family, and he faces up to 20 years in jail if convicted. His $182 million contract remains in effect, but he is not currently being paid. Franco's legal proceedings are split into multiple phases, including a preparatory phase, a preliminary ruling, and a final ruling.