Wander Franco social media posts: What are the allegations against the Tampa Bay Rays star?
Michael Hansen
Published Sep 05, 2026
THE TAMPA Bay Rays faced controversy when Wander Franco was accused of engaging in an alleged inappropriate relationship with a minor.
The claims involving the MLB shortstop first circulated on social media via X, formerly known as Twitter.
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What are the allegations against Wander Franco?
On August 14, 2023, a series of social media posts alleging Wander Franco was involved in an inappropriate relationship with a minor went viral.
As the Tampa Bay Rays lost their game against the Cleveland Guardians, the original Spanish-language posts were deleted.
By the game's final out, Franco’s name was the top sports trending topic on X.
On the same day, the Rays said in a statement: "During today’s game, we were made aware of the social media posts that are circulating regarding Wander Franco.
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"We take the situation seriously and are in close contact with Major League Baseball as it conducts its due diligence.
"The team and Wander Franco have mutually agreed that he will go on the restricted list and take leave from the club for the duration of the current road trip.
"We support any steps taken by the league to better understand the situation.
"Out of respect for all parties involved, we have no further comments at this time."
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Diario Libre reported an additional unidentified 17-year-old girl separate from the X posts filed a complaint in the Dominican Republic on July 17, 2023.
In the abovementioned country, the age of consent is 18.
When was Wander Franco put on administrative leave?
On August 22 of the same year, the Tampa Bay Rays announced he was put on administrative leave.
Regarding administrative leave, the MLB's policy is removed from the team's games but continues to be paid.
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In a statement, the league explained: "Per an agreement between MLB and the MLBPA, Wander Franco has been placed on Administrative Leave until further notice as MLB continues its ongoing investigation.
"The administrative leave, effective immediately, is not disciplinary under the Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy."
The Rays agreed with the league's decision and commented: "We support Major League Baseball’s decision to place Wander Franco on administrative leave.
"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.
"We will have no further statements on this matter until MLB completes its process."
How did Franco respond to the allegations?
Franco took to Instagram to deny the allegations against him.
"They say that I’m in public with a little girl, that I’m running around with a minor," the MLB All-Star responded in his native language via Instagram Live.
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"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."
