MLB looking into social media posts involving Rays shortstop Wander Franco. On Sunday, the Tampa Bay Rays issued a statement addressing shortstop Wander Franco and the charges made against him on social media. The Rays stated on Sunday that they were “made aware” of social media posts concerning Franco and that Major League Baseball is performing “due diligence” on the situation.
“During today’s game, we were made aware of the social media posts that have been circulating regarding Wander Franco,” the Rays stated in a statement. “We take the situation seriously and are in close contact with Major League Baseball while it conducts its due diligence.”
Following Tampa Bay’s loss to the Guardians on Sunday, Rays manager Kevin Cash addressed the speculation. Cash stated at the time that he was aware of the notion but declined to comment. He did, however, note that Franco’s absence from the lineup on Sunday was due to a prearranged day off and had nothing to do with anything else going on with him.
Instead of Franco, the Rays used rookie infielder Osleivis Basabe at shortstop. Prior to the game, the Rays had only recalled Basabe, demoting lefty Josh Fleming in the process.
Franco, 22, agreed to terms with the Rays on an 11-year contract deal in November 2021. This season, he was named to his first All-Star Game and is hitting.281/.344/.475 in 112 games.