Wander Franco’s trial for charges of sexual abuse, sexual exploitation of a minor, and human trafficking has been postponed. The trial, originally scheduled for this Thursday, was delayed after only three of the 36 witnesses showed up in the courtroom in Puerto Plata. As a result, Dominican judge Yacaira Veras rescheduled the trial for June 2, 2025. Franco’s legal team opposed the delay, citing the upcoming spring training in mid-February, but the court granted the request from prosecutors for more time.
Franco, who was placed on indefinite administrative leave in August 2023 following allegations involving a 14-year-old girl, was moved to the restricted list in 2024 after the charges were officially filed. In addition to his ongoing legal issues, Franco was recently arrested on weapons charges for possession of a firearm.
While Franco’s legal troubles continue, the Tampa Bay Rays are also facing significant challenges off the field. Following Hurricane Milton, the roof of their stadium was damaged, forcing the team to play this season at Steinbrenner Field. Political issues surrounding their new stadium plan have added further uncertainty to the team’s future in Tampa.
Compounding matters, Franco’s large contract looms over the Rays. After just 70 games in the majors, Franco signed an 11-year, $182 million contract—the largest in Rays’ history. With his salary set to rise above $15 million by 2026, the Rays face uncertainty both on and off the field as the fate of their star shortstop and the future of their ballpark hang in the balance. The Wander Franco saga will be on pause until at least June 2025.
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