Wander Franco Faces Human Trafficking and Sexual Abuse Charges

The Tampa Bay Rays' shortstop could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted in the Dominican Republic.

Franco has been charged with human trafficking, sexual abuse, and sexual exploitation of a minor.
The charges stem from an alleged relationship with a 14-year-old girl starting in December 2022.
Franco has been moved to the restricted list by MLB and will not receive pay or service time.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for August 14 to determine if the case will go to trial.
The legal outcome could impact Franco's ability to work in the U.S. and his MLB career.