According to the agency director on Thursday, Wander Franco, the shortstop for the Tampa Bay Rays, did not reply to a summons issued in the Dominican Republic about claims that he had improper interactions with minors.
According to Olga Diná Llaverías, Franco failed to show up for his scheduled appearance in Santo Domingo at 11 a.m., the time set by the Specialized Prosecutor’s Office for Children and Adolescents.
During a brief press conference, Diná Llaverías stated that the agency would carry out the probe but did not go into specifics.
Diná Llaverías responded, “There are a few options in the investigative process, but now is not an opportune time to speak about that,” when asked what the case’s next steps were.
According to documents obtained by The Associated Press, Franco had fired his legal counsel.
At least two individuals have taken Franco to court. Although there hasn’t been an official complaint to the authorities from the third girl, sources tell ESPN that he is also being investigated for allegedly having a relationship with another juvenile.
Franco has not been charged with any crimes.
The Dominican Republic-born Franco was put on administrative leave by Major League Baseball in August as the league looked into the claims.
The Rays announced their support for the league’s decision to place Franco on leave and their willingness to assist with the inquiry whenever needed.
The franchise stated in a statement at the time, “The Tampa Bay Rays are dedicated to maintaining high standards of integrity both on and off the field.” “We are grateful for our fans’ and followers’ patience and understanding while this process takes place. Until MLB has finished its investigation, we won’t be making any more statements on this subject.”
The group has not provided any updates on the matter since then.
After 70 MLB games, Franco and the Rays reached a contract extension in November 2021 worth $182 million. With a batting average of.281/.344,.475 with 17 home runs, 58 RBIs, and 30 stolen bases, Franco was among the most productive players in MLB at the time of his suspension. In 2023, he was selected for his first All-Star team.