Rays shortstop Wander Franco received a two-year suspended prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing a minor in the Dominican Republic.
The ruling has raised questions about the 24-year-old’s MLB future.
He is on MLB’s restricted list and last played Aug. 12, 2023, and it’s certainly possible he will not play again in the majors.
Franco signed a franchise record 11-year, $182 million extension with the Rays in 2021 that can be worth up to $223 million and includes a club option for the 2033 season.
Sportico noted how Thursday’s ruling affects whether Franco will be allowed to enter the United States since he has a criminal record in a foreign country.
Franco reportedly could remain in the United States from 2021-23 due to a visa, and this ruling could affect whether he can obtain another visa.
ESPN said it’s “likely” Franco will have trouble getting a visa and he would remain on the restricted list without one.
The U.S. Department of State can shoot down a visa application if an applicant has a criminal history, including sexual abuse, per Sportico.
MLB is still investigating the situation and could levy discipline on Franco. He is not paid while on the restricted list.
The league could make him ineligible through its joint domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse policy, although Franco could appeal such a decision, per Sportico.
Franco also was charged in the Dominican Republic for illegal possession of a handgun in June and the case is pending, per ESPN.
“Major League Baseball is proud to have a collectively bargained Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy that reflects our commitment to these issues,” the league said in a statement released Thursday, per MLB.com. “We are aware of today’s verdict in the Wander Franco trial and will conclude our investigation at the appropriate time.”
The Rays could try to void the contract due to Franco violating clauses regarding conduct, with Franco being found guilty for sexually abusing a 14-year-old while he was 21.
As Sportico noted, though, that could be a slippery slope, with the Padres losing a battle in 1987 after pitcher LaMarr Hoyt received a 45-day jail sentence.
Tampa Bay could always just release Franco, although such a decision would almost surely come after the two-year sentence and following any potential MLB discipline.
The sides could also attempt to negotiate a buyout.
Should Franco become a free agent, it’s still uncertain of whether any other teams would be willing to sign him following this conviction.
MLB teams have not signed pitcher Trevor Bauer after he received a two-year suspension — eventually reduced to 192 games — following assault allegations.
Bauer was not found guilty of a crime and has accused the league owners of being blackballed.