Tampa Bay Rays’ shortstop, Wander Franco, has responded to recent allegations regarding his involvement with a minor on social media.
In response to these claims, the team has placed Franco on the restricted list and both the Tampa Bay Rays and MLB are carrying out investigations.
However, Franco has vehemently denied the allegations and took to Instagram on Sunday to address the rumors in a live video.
Tampa Bay radio host Jay Retcher shared a clip of the video on Twitter, providing a translation of Franco’s statement. “They say that I’m in public with a little girl, that I’m running around with a minor,” Franco quoted. “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.”
From Wander Franco’s IG Live :
“They say that I’m in public with a little girl, that I’m running around with a minor. 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 & not get involved with anybody.” pic.twitter.com/DEtsHCrbQW
— Jay Recher (@jayRecher) August 14, 2023
Franco did not participate in the match against the Cleveland Guardians on Sunday, as manager Kevin Cash stated that he was simply given a day off.
The accusations emerged on social media shortly after a video, recorded inside the Rays’ clubhouse about an hour before the game, was made public.
The Athletic reported that fellow teammate Joe Siri was seen conversing with Franco in the stream.
The Tampa Bay Rays have acknowledged the allegations in a statement, affirming that they take the situation seriously and are collaborating closely with Major League Baseball during their investigation.
“During today’s game, we were made aware of the social media posts that are circulating regarding Wander Franco,” it reads. “We take the situation seriously and are in close contact with Major League Baseball as it conducts its due diligence.”
Franco will remain on the restricted list until the end of the Rays’ road trip on August 20th.
Got a story or tip for us? Email TMSPN editors at [email protected]
Want More From The World Wide Leader in Sports Entertainment?
For all the latest breaking in sports entertainment news, be sure to follow TMSPN.com on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
