Trial date set for Rays’ Wander Franco in Dominican Republic

Wander Franco’s trial in the Dominican Republic is scheduled to begin on December 12th.

The Rays’ All-Star shortstop is charged with human trafficking, sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of a minor stemming from a relationship with a then-14-year-old girl that began in December 2022, when Franco was 21.

If convicted by the court of first instance in Puerto Plata, Franco, now 23, could face up to 20 years in prison. His case is heard by a panel of three or five judges; There are no legal proceedings in the Dominican Republic.

In September, during the trial, Judge Pascual Valenzuela weighed the evidence presented by the prosecution and concluded that a trial was warranted. Had the judge not agreed, the charges could have been dropped.

Several published reports have given no indication of how long the trial is expected to take. The teenager’s mother also has to answer in court for sexual exploitation and money laundering.

Franco, who has been on Major League Baseball’s suspended list since mid-July and has not received the remainder of his $2 million salary, has not played since August 2023.

Because he is on the restricted list, Franco will not be required to be reinstated to the 40-man roster during the offseason. Last year he was on administrative leave (and receiving a negotiated portion of his salary); The Rays had to add him back to the 40-man roster after the conclusion of the World Series. His salary is expected to rise to $8 million next season.

The outcome of the trial will play a role in determining whether the Rays still owe Franco the remaining $172 million of the 11-year, $182 million contract he signed after his debut season in 2021. Another factor will be the results of an ongoing investigation by MLB, which, if completed after the legal aspects are resolved, could lead to disciplinary action.

• • •

Sign up for the Sports Today newsletter for daily coverage of the Bucs, Rays, Lightning and college football across Florida.

Never miss the latest on your favorite Tampa Bay sports teams. Follow our coverage on Instagram, X and Facebook.