Search Warrant Issues Against Wander Franco, Dominican Authorities Couldn’t Find Him At Home

Wander Franco, a standout for the Tampa Bay Rays, was apparently the target of two home raids by Dominican Republic authorities, although he was not discovered in either.

Search Warrant Issues Against Wander Franco, Dominican Authorities Couldn’t Find Him At Home

The All-Star shortstop failed to appear on Tuesday when authorities searched Franco’s and his mother’s residences, according to the publication Listin Diario.

According to the site, neighbours also left messages for Wander’s spouse. On August 22, Franco was put on administrative leave as MLB looked into reports of his contacts with minors.

Both Wander’s mother’s and his own residence were searched on Tuesday by the Santo Domingo Prosecutor’s Office for Children and Adolescents, according to a story published in Spanish by Listin Diario.

According to the story, Wander lives in Villa Real, while his mother lives in Baní. Neighbours also indicated that police had left notes for Franco’s wife.

Late in August, Dominican authorities declared that they were investigating several allegations made against Franco.

Major League Baseball put 22-year-old Franco on administrative leave “until further notice” in August following reports that he had interactions with underage women.

In response to the accusations, the Rays started removing pictures of Franco from Tropicana Field. Additionally, there has been no indication that Franco memorabilia is available in the Rays’ ballpark club store.

In November 2021, he inked an 11-year, $182 million contract extension; but, when it expires in 2033, a team option could make the agreement worth $233 million.

“We support Major League Baseball’s decision to place Wander Franco on Administration Leave,” the Rays added in a subsequent 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.”

August 12 was Franco’s last game with the Rays.

In an August Instagram Live video in Spanish, Franco seemed to refute the allegations, according to the Tampa Bay Times.

“They say that I’m in public with a little girl, that I’m running around with a minor,” Franco said in August, according to the outlet.

“People don’t know what to do with their time. They don’t know what they’re talking about. That’s why  I prefer to be on my side and not get involved with anybody … because people gossip and talk smack.”

This season, Franco was an All-Star for the first time. This past season, he hit.281/.344,.475 with 17 home runs and 58 RBI in 112 games.

How many career hits does Wander Franco have?

Career Stats
Season Team H
2021 TB 81
2022 TB 87
2023 TB 124
MLB Career – 292

What is the status of Wander Franco?

Major League Baseball and Dominican Republic officials are still looking into claims that the 22-year-old Rays shortstop had improper interactions with minors.

 

 

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