Major League Baseball placed Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco on administrative leave amid an investigation into his alleged inappropriate relationships with minors, the league announced Tuesday.
Franco, who’s being investigated for a possible violation of the MLB-MLB players’ association joint domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse policy, will remain on administrative leave “until further notice,” the league’s release noted. The move isn’t a disciplinary measure. He’ll continue to be paid and accrue service time while on administrative leave.
The issue of Franco’s postseason eligibility hasn’t yet been determined, sources told Evan Drellich of The Athletic.
“We support Major League Baseball’s decision to place Wander Franco on administrative leave,” the Rays said in a statement. “The Tampa Bay Rays are dedicated to upholding high standards of integrity both on and off the field. We appreciate the understanding and patience of our fans and supporters as this process unfolds. We will have no further statements on this matter until MLB completes its process.”