Major League Baseball (MLB) has placed Wander Franco of the Tampa Bay Rays on administrative leave following allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a minor. The leave, which has no fixed end date, allows MLB to conduct its ongoing investigation into the matter. The league and the MLB Players Association (MLBPA) have agreed to the administrative leave, which is not disciplinary under the Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Child Abuse Policy.
MLB released a statement saying, “Per an agreement between MLB and the MLBPA, Wander Franco has been placed on Administrative Leave until further notice as MLB continues its ongoing investigation.” The statement also clarified that the leave is not a disciplinary action and that further comments will be made at the appropriate time. The MLBPA and Franco’s personal attorney, Jay Reisinger, declined to comment on the situation.
The Tampa Bay Rays expressed their support for MLB’s decision to place Franco on administrative leave. In a statement, the team said, “We support Major League Baseball’s decision to place Wander Franco on Administrative Leave. The Tampa Bay Rays are dedicated to upholding high standards of integrity both on and off the field.” The Rays also stated that they would not make any further statements until MLB completes its investigation.
The administrative leave for Franco does not have a fixed end date but is tied to certain events in the investigation. It is unclear what those specific events are, but sources indicate that the pending criminal case in the Dominican Republic is a factor. Despite being on administrative leave, Franco’s eligibility for the postseason has not been ruled out, and he could potentially return depending on the outcome of the investigation.
By placing Franco on administrative leave, MLB and the MLBPA avoid the need to extend his leave every seven or 14 days, as outlined in the collective bargaining agreement. This arrangement allows for a more flexible approach based on the progress of the investigation.
Franco has been away from the Rays since August 13, following allegations of an inappropriate relationship. The 22-year-old shortstop did not travel with the team for their road trip. Franco has denied the allegations through an Instagram video.
Administrative leave is a formal step in MLB’s Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Child Abuse Policy. It is collectively bargained between the league and the union. Placement on administrative leave can be challenged by a player and brought before an arbitration panel. Therefore, MLB only moves for leave when it believes the decision can withstand scrutiny.
Franco remains on the restricted list, where he was placed after the allegations became public. He continues to be paid and receive service time. The league and the union can agree to extend a player’s time on administrative leave indefinitely. Trevor Bauer’s suspension for violating the domestic-violence policy was repeatedly extended before he was ultimately suspended.
Technically, administrative leave guarantees a minimum of seven days away, but the length or arrangement can be modified with both parties’ agreement.
The investigation into Wander Franco’s alleged inappropriate relationship with a minor is ongoing, and MLB will provide further updates when appropriate. The administrative leave allows for a thorough examination of the allegations while ensuring that Franco’s rights are protected. As the situation unfolds, the baseball community awaits the resolution of this matter and hopes for a fair and just outcome.