In a surprising move, Major League Baseball MLB is investigating Wander Franco’s social media posts. The Rays defeated Cleveland 92 on Sunday.
The digital world fought a different battle during the field fights. Sunday’s game did not feature Wander Franco, a promising player. While playing, the Rays released a statement saying they were aware of concerning social media posts. They pledged to address the issue honestly and openly. During this rigorous inquiry, they are still working with Major League Baseball.
The scenario was mysterious since these social media posts were unclear. After Franco exited in the fifth inning, the Rays switched to Osleivis Basabe at shortstop. Basabe’s first major league move was this one.
The probe occurred during an intriguing event. Tropicana Field presented the Wander Franco Snapback Hat to under-14 fans off the field. After the game, Rays manager Kevin Cash was questioned. “No,” Cash answered when asked if Franco’s departure was more than a day off, implying a more intricate explanation.
When asked more questions, Cash carefully chose his words and veiled the issue. Cash stated, “I’m aware of the rumors, but I’m not going to say anything else about them.” He said, “The day off was because it was a day off,” providing opportunity for interpretation but remaining cautious.
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Franco is no stranger to scandals outside of baseball. Due to his poor teamwork and handling of challenging situations, the Rays benched him for two games in late June.
Franco’s ascension has been rocket-like. In November 2021, the Rays signed the rising star to a huge contract. 11 years and a team option for 2033 could make the deal worth $223 million.
Franco, an All-Star this season, will be remembered for his hitting. He’s great. He’s good on the field with a 281 average, 17 home runs, 58 runs driven in, and 30 stolen bases in 30 attempts in 112 games.
As the MLB inquiry continues, Franco’s disappearance grows more puzzling. This illuminates players’ digital lives and how they affect their baseball performance.
Our Reader’s Queries
What happens to Wander Franco?
In 2021, the Rays made a big move by signing Franco, a promising baseball player, to a whopping 11-year, $182 million contract. However, things took a turn when MLB placed him on administrative leave in August of the same year under the MLB-MLBPA Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy. Franco faced allegations, which he denied.
Is Wander Franco a citizen of the United States?
As per a source familiar with Franco’s legal proceedings, he holds a P-1A Athlete visa that permits him to travel to the U.S. from his home country, the Dominican Republic, for professional athletic performances. However, the government considers this visa to be an exceptional privilege, as stated by Khazaeli.
How much does Wander Franco make?
Despite being on administrative leave, Franco’s $2 million salary continued to be paid. Additionally, he is set to receive the same amount next season as part of his 11-year contract worth $182 million, which began in 2022.
What MLB team is Wander Franco on?
Meet Wander Samuel Franco Aybar, also known as “El Patron”. This Dominican baseball player is a professional shortstop for the Tampa Bay Rays in Major League Baseball (MLB). He made his debut in 2021 and quickly became an All-Star in 2023. With his impressive skills and talent, Wander is a force to be reckoned with on the field.