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NY Post
New York Post
22 Aug 2023


NextImg:Rays scrubbing Wander Franco’s likeness from Tropicana Field

Wander Franco won’t be at the ballpark — in person or in likeness — anytime soon.

The Rays began pulling the star shortstop’s likeness down around Tropicana Field as he’s currently on administrative leave from the team amid an investigation into claims he had relationships with underage women.

A banner outside the stadium featuring the 22-year-old has been replaced by one of infielder Yandy Diaz, while an elevator wrap was swapped to one of pitcher Pete Fairbanks, according to the Tampa Bay Times’ Marc Topkin.

Signs featuring Franco from neighboring sports bar Ferg’s are also coming down, according to Topkin.

Franco highlights have already been removed from commercials by the Rays and broadcaster Bally Sports.

He is under investigation by Major League Baseball and authorities in his native Dominican Republic over social media posts that went viral on Aug. 13.

Franco has denied the allegations.

An image of the Tampa Bay Rays’ Wander Franco on a fence outside of Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill.
ZUMAPRESS.com

MLB placed him on indefinite leave Tuesday in an agreement with the MLBPA.

“The administrative leave, effective immediately, is not disciplinary under the Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy,” MLB said in the statement.

The Rays have said they are letting the process play out.

Wander Franco #5 of the Tampa Bay Rays throws out Zack Short of the Detroit Tigers
Franco was placed on indefinite leave by MLB on Tuesday.
Getty Images

“We support Major League Baseball’s decision to place Wander Franco on Administration 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.”

He has not played since Aug. 12.

Wander Franco #5 of the Tampa Bay Rays hits a two run homer in the first inning
Franco may not play again this season as MLB investigates alleged relationship with underage girls.
Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post

Z101 Digital’s Héctor Gómez reported that a source told him the Rays shortstop is “very unlikely” to play in Major League Baseball again.

Franco is in the second season of an 11-year, $188 million contract that runs through 2032.

Despite being on leave, he will continue to collect his $2 million salary and accrue service time.