MLB, Rays Investigate Wander Franco Social Media Speculation

Major League Baseball is investigating social media posts alleging that Rays shortstop Wander Franco had an inappropriate relationship with a minor.

Major League Baseball is currently investigating social media posts regarding Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco, according to a statement released by the team on Sunday night. These posts, which quickly went viral on the X platform (formerly known as Twitter), allege that Franco has been involved in an inappropriate relationship with a minor.

The Rays organization is taking the situation seriously and is in close contact with Major League Baseball as they conduct their due diligence. Rays general manager Peter Bendix, who visited Kevin Cash's office after the game, declined to comment through a team spokesperson.

Despite a Wander Franco Snapback Hat giveaway for kids 14 and under, Franco was not included in the lineup for Sunday's game. The Rays called up top prospect Osleivis Basabe from Triple-A Durham to start in his place. Cash stated before the game that the decision to sit Franco was to give him a break, and when asked about any additional factors, Cash simply replied, "no, just a day off."

Cash did acknowledge that he was aware of the speculation on social media when questioned further. However, he declined to comment any further on the matter. The posts gained significant traction on social media throughout the game, making Franco's name the top trending sports topic on the platform by the end of the game.

Franco arrived at Tropicana Field several hours before the game alongside at least one other player. He was present in the dugout during the early innings but left around the fifth and did not return. After the game, he was not seen in the clubhouse, and a clubhouse attendant packed his baseball gear into a team travel bag at his locker.

Following the game, the Rays immediately headed to the airport to fly to San Francisco for a three-game series against the Giants starting on Monday. Franco has been one of the best shortstops in the American League this season and has shouldered a heavy workload. With backup shortstop Taylor Walls on the injured list, Franco had played in 40 consecutive games before sitting out on Sunday.

It's worth noting that earlier this season, Franco was suspended by the Rays for "not being the best teammate," resulting in him missing two games. Stay updated on the latest news about the Tampa Bay sports teams by signing up for the Sports Today newsletter and following their coverage on Twitter and Facebook.