It all started on August 14 when a set of posts on social media alleged Wander Franco of being in a relationship with a minor girl in the Dominican Republic.
Shortly thereafter, the Tampa Bay Rays star refuted these claims during a live session on Instagram, only hours after the dramatic news went viral.
While he was live on his Instagram page Franco stated, “They say that I’m in public with a little girl, that I’m running around with a minor,” said Franco in Spanish. “People don’t know what to do with their time. They don’t know what they’re talking about. That’s why I prefer to be on my side & not get involved with anybody.”
Next, the Rays decided to sideline the young phenom for at least a week, with the MLB also probing into the matter.
Meanwhile, the National Agency for Boys, Girls, Adolescents, and the Family in the Dominican Republic has taken an active role in a separate investigation into Franco’s situation.
Wander Franco’s return to the Tampa Bay Rays could be imminent. As Franco’s future hangs by a thread, all eyes are now on the Dominican authorities and the MLB for their decision on his clearance.
While the 22-year-old Wander Franco takes an unexpected hiatus due to his restricted list placement, he’s not missing out on a single paycheck ($2 million salary, part of the 11-year, $182 million deal).
Among all the curve balls, Franco’s marriage status also came to light. As per reports, the Tampa Bay Rays star is married to a 21-year-old woman named Rachelly Paulino and the couple also have two sons together.
Franco signed with the Tampa Bay Rays on July 2, 2017. Four years later on June 20, 2021, he was promoted to the MLB and made his debut two days later.
In 2023, Franco received his inaugural All-Star game nod, stepping in for the injured Aaron Judge in the roster.
