Embattled Rays shortstop Wander Franco has been placed on administrative leave “until further notice” as MLB investigates claims of alleged inappropriate relationships with underage women.
MLB and the MLBPA came to the agreement, according to a release from MLB.
“The administrative leave, effective immediately, is not disciplinary under the Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy,” MLB said in the statement.
Franco, in his third season with the Rays, has not played since Aug. 12.
He has denied the claims, but the Rays have not played him since the allegations came to light.
It’s possible he could miss the remainder of the season — and perhaps longer — depending on the outcome of MLB’s investigation.
Tampa Bay (75-51) once seemed like a lock for the playoffs, but now trails the Baltimore Orioles by three games in the AL East and is just 5 1/2 games clear of a playoff spot.