ST. PETERSBURG._ Wander Franco will not join the Tampa Bay Rays when they return to Tropicana Field Tuesday night, as the Dominican shortstop was placed on administrative leave until further notice, thanks to an agreement between Major League Baseball and the Association of MLB (MLBPA) players Tuesday morning.
The Rays and Franco, who made his first All-Star Game this year, had mutually agreed that he would be placed on the shortlist on Aug. 14, a period that ran through Monday. MLB and, according to published reports, authorities in the Dominican Republic have begun investigating social media posts alleging that the 22-year-old had been in an inappropriate relationship with a minor.
MLB issued the following statement Tuesday: “Pursuant to an agreement between MLB and the MLBPA, Wander Franco has been placed on Administrative Leave until further notice, while MLB continues its ongoing investigation. Administrative Leave, which is effective immediately, is non-disciplinary under the Joint Policy on Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse. We will return to offer comment at the appropriate time.”
Shortly after MLB’s announcement, the Rays issued their own statement: “We support Major League Baseball’s decision to place Wander Franco on administrative leave. The Tampa Bay Rays are dedicated to maintaining high standards of integrity, both on and off the field. We appreciate the understanding and patience of our fans and supporters as this situation continues. We will not be making any further statements on this matter until MLB completes its process.”
Administrative leave is not considered a punishment. Under MLB’s and the MLBPA’s Collectively Bargained Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy, players on administrative leave continue to receive their Major League salary and service time. The club continued to pay Franco his $2 million salary while the player was on the restricted list last week, part of the guaranteed 11-year, $182 million extension he signed after the 2021 season.
Franco, who last played on Aug. 12, denied the allegations in an Instagram Live video recorded in the Rays’ clubhouse before the Aug. 13 game at Tropicana Field. He has not issued a statement or spoken publicly since then, and did not travel with the team last week. Apparently, he has retained a lawyer in the United States and a legal adviser in the Dominican Republic.
After announcing Franco’s inclusion on the restricted list, the Rays issued a statement saying: “We support any action the league takes to better understand the situation. Out of respect to all parties involved, we have no further comment at this time.”
The Rays begin a six-game homestand Tuesday night when they face the Rockies.
2023-08-22 17:24:02
#Wander #Franco #Administrative #Leave
