Former MLB Star Wander Franco Found Guilty: What’s Next for Baseball?

By Oliver Wiener June 29, 2025 14:06

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the baseball community, former Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco was found guilty of sexual abuse of a minor by a court in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, on June 26, 2025. The 24-year-old, once considered a cornerstone of the Rays’ future, received a two-year suspended prison sentence, sparking intense debate about his career and the broader implications for Major League Baseball.

The Verdict and Legal Details

Franco was convicted of sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl when he was 21 years old, with the relationship reportedly beginning in December 2022. The court imposed a two-year suspended sentence, meaning Franco will avoid jail time provided he complies with strict conditions, including not approaching minors for sexual purposes. The ruling was unanimous, delivered by Judges Jakaira Veras García, Venia Ro, and José Jiménez.

The court also sentenced the minor’s mother to ten years in prison for her role in sexually exploiting her daughter and profiting financially from the situation. Prosecutors alleged that Franco transferred thousands of dollars to the mother to obtain consent for the illegal relationship, charges that the mother denied but were proven in court.

Franco was fined approximately $3,650, while the mother faced a larger penalty of around $11,050. Despite the conviction, Franco’s legal team has announced plans to appeal, asserting that justice was not served and raising concerns about the impartiality of the investigation.

Impact on Franco’s Baseball Career

Since the allegations surfaced on social media in August 2023, Franco has not played in a Major League Baseball game. He was placed on administrative leave and later moved to MLB’s restricted list, meaning he is not being paid and is not accruing service time.

The conviction raises serious questions about Franco’s future in professional baseball. Immigration experts have indicated that a conviction of this nature will likely result in a permanent ban from entering the United States, effectively ending his MLB career unless overturned on appeal. Additionally, the Rays could seek to void the remaining $133 million on his 11-year, $182 million contract based on moral turpitude clauses.

MLB has expressed its commitment to addressing domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse through its collectively bargained Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy. The league is continuing its investigation and has not yet announced any disciplinary measures beyond Franco’s current restricted status.

Broader Implications for Baseball

Wander Franco’s conviction is a stark reminder of the challenges MLB faces in addressing off-field conduct and protecting the integrity of the sport. As one of the game’s brightest young stars, Franco’s fall from grace has prompted calls for stronger policies and education programs within baseball’s player development systems.

MLB Network analyst and former player emphasized, “This case underscores the importance of accountability and the need for proactive measures to support victims and prevent abuse. The league must continue to evolve its approach to these serious issues.”

The Rays organization released a statement respecting the legal process and reaffirming their cooperation with MLB’s ongoing investigation.

What’s Next?

Franco’s legal team is expected to pursue appeals in higher courts in the Dominican Republic, which could delay final resolution. Meanwhile, MLB and the Rays must navigate the complex process of managing a high-profile player’s contract and public relations fallout.

For baseball fans and stakeholders, the case raises difficult questions about redemption, justice, and the responsibilities of professional sports leagues in addressing misconduct.

The conviction of Wander Franco marks a somber chapter for MLB and the Tampa Bay Rays. While the suspended sentence spares him prison time, the legal and professional consequences are profound. As the league continues to grapple with these issues, Franco’s case will likely serve as a catalyst for ongoing reforms aimed at safeguarding players and fans alike.