Wander Franco Faces Lesser Charge, May Be Barred from U.S.

The Tampa Bay Rays shortstop, accused of having a relationship with a minor, could face between two to five years in prison if found guilty on the new charge of sexual and psychological abuse.

Wander Franco, Tampa Bay Rays shortstop, is now facing a lesser charge of sexual and psychological abuse in the Dominican Republic, after a judge analyzed evidence alleging Franco had a relationship with a 14-year-old girl and paid her mother for consent.
Franco, originally accused of commercial and sexual exploitation and money laundering, could face between two to five years in prison if found guilty on the new charge.
Franco was conditionally released from jail and is required to meet with authorities once a month in the Dominican Republic as the investigation continues.
Franco's presence at spring training and availability for the 2024 season are in doubt, as legal experts believe he will likely be barred from entering the U.S. while facing these accusations.
If Franco is unable to enter the U.S. by Opening Day, the Rays would have to place him on the restricted list, preventing him from getting paid.