Rays Phenom Wander Franco Under Investigation: What the Allegations Mean for His MLB Future

Dominican Republic — Suspended Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco is facing a pivotal moment in the sexual-abuse case that has kept him out of Major League Baseball since August 2024. On Monday, Dominican prosecutors formally asked a three-judge panel in Puerto Plata to impose a five-year prison sentence, arguing that testimony and digital evidence prove Franco maintained an inappropriate relationship with a minor and later intimidated key witnesses. The sentencing request came after five weeks of testimony that featured phone records, hotel security footage, and statements from the alleged victim’s relatives. Prosecutors described the evidence as “overwhelming,” while Franco’s legal team countered that messages had been selectively edited and that the teenager’s age was misrepresented when the relationship began. Judges will hear closing arguments next Monday before entering deliberations that could conclude as early as July 1. A conviction would almost certainly trigger a permanent ban under MLB’s domestic-violence policy, which has already led to Franco’s indefinite administrative leave and the voiding of his $182 million contract extension. League officials have said they will not decide on additional discipline until the Dominican verdict is announced. Beyond the primary sexual-abuse charge, Franco, 24, also faces a separate gun-possession case tied to a November 2024 parking-lot altercation in his hometown of Baní. Prosecutors say the firearm allegation bolsters their argument for jail time, citing a pattern of “reckless behavior.” Defense attorneys insist the weapon was legally owned by a relative and that Franco had no intent to intimidate. The Rays, who removed all Franco merchandise from Tropicana Field last season, reiterated in a statement that the club is “monitoring developments and prioritizing the well-being of all involved.” Teammates have largely avoided public comment, though manager Kevin Cash acknowledged the “distraction” during the club’s recent road trip. Fans and fantasy-baseball managers continue to search for updates on Wander Franco’s legal status, wondering whether the former No. 1 prospect will ever return to MLB action. Analysts note that even an acquittal may not guarantee reinstatement; the league retains broad authority to issue its own suspension. Key dates • June 18: Trial reaches evidentiary phase conclusion. • June 23: Prosecutors request five-year sentence. • June 30: Closing arguments scheduled. • Early July: Expected verdict window. SEO keywords: Wander Franco trial, Wander Franco prison sentence, Tampa Bay Rays shortstop, Dominican prosecutors, MLB suspension, sexual abuse case, Puerto Plata court, Wander Franco update 2025.