Tampa Bay Rays All-Star shortstop Wander Franco, 22, is facing an investigation for his alleged involvement with a minor in his native country of the Dominican Republic. The investigation is being conducted by a division specializing in minors and gender violence in the province of Peravia, where Franco was born.
Both the Rays and Major League Baseball (MLB) are also conducting their own investigations into the matter. The scrutiny began after social media posts speculated about Franco’s involvement with a minor, although none of these posts have been substantiated.
In response to the allegations, the Rays have placed Franco on the restricted list, which will sideline him for at least six games. However, Franco himself seems bewildered by the uproar surrounding the situation, denying any wrongdoing and stating on Instagram Live that people are misinterpreting his actions and spreading false rumors.
What adds further intrigue to the case is the revelation of Franco’s marital status. Prior to the allegations, his marriage was shrouded in mystery. However, it has now been reported by the Daily Mail that Franco is married to a 21-year-old woman named Rachelly Paulino, with whom he shares two children. The couple reportedly tied the knot after Franco’s 2021 season.
While Franco attempts to downplay the accusations, the Dominican authorities are taking them seriously. Dominican prosecutor Ángel Darío Tejeda Fabal has confirmed that the investigation is open under The National Agency for Boys, Girls, Adolescents and Family and Gender Violence Unit. Fabal stated that the investigation is in its early stages and will be overseen by a judge specializing in child abuse cases.
The situation surrounding Franco is undoubtedly a matter of concern for both the Rays and MLB. As the investigations unfold, fans and the baseball community at large await further updates and a resolution to the allegations.
