Latest On Wander Franco's Legal Proceedings

Key Points:

• Rays shortstop Wander Franco was found guilty of sexual and psychological abuse of a minor in a retrial but will not serve prison time due to a judicial pardon recognizing him as both defendant and victim; the conviction remains on record.
• The minor’s mother was sentenced to ten years for money laundering and threats of exposure, consistent with the previous trial's outcome, which also saw her convicted of trafficking.
• Major League Baseball and the Tampa Bay Rays have acknowledged the verdict and are continuing their investigations under the league’s domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse policy, with Franco currently on the restricted list and not receiving pay.
• Franco was initially charged in July 2024 with sexual abuse, sexual exploitation of a minor, and human trafficking related to a relationship with a 14-year-old girl, with investigations starting in August 2023.
• Given the conviction and legal issues, Franco’s ability to obtain a U.S. work visa and return to play in MLB is uncertain, and he remains off the field without pay pending further league decisions.