Rays Star Franco Temporarily Left The Team Over His Relationship With Underage Girls

The Tampa Bay Rays are taking a leave of absence from the team, the MLB said today, as shortstop Jose Franco is under investigation for allegations that he had intercourse with an underage girl.

The Rays, who begin a three-game road trip against the San Francisco Giants today, said in a brief statement that 22-year-old Wander Franco has been placed on the restricted roster.

The news comes as MLB is investigating Franco following allegations on social media over the weekend that he had an inappropriate relationship with a minor.

"The Rays have mutually agreed with Franco that he will be placed on the restricted roster and will not travel with the team on this road trip," the Rays said in a post on social media platform X.

"We support any steps the league takes to better understand the situation, and out of respect for all parties involved in this matter, we have no further comment at this time."

Franco didn't play in the Rays' victory over the Cleveland Guardians on Sunday, when manager Kevin Cash insisted he was giving the star player "a day off."

Franco, from the Dominican Republic, has been one of the brightest hitters this season, with 124 hits in 442 at-bats, including 17 home runs, and 58 Rbis.