Rays’ Wander Franco faces more charges
July 10, 2024 - ESPN editor Juan Arturo Recio reported Tuesday night that Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco was formally charged with sexual abuse and exploitation of a minor in his native Dominican Republic. Recio said Wednesday morning that Dominican authorities are also accusing Franco of human trafficking. Franco, the highest-paid player in team history, has been on administrative leave since allegations emerged and investigations began in August 2023.