MLB Reacts to the Ruling in the Wander Franco Case
Major League Baseball (MLB) has issued an official statement following the sentencing of Dominican player Wander Franco, who was sentenced to two years of suspended prison for the sexual abuse of a minor.The Collegiate Court of Puerto Plata found Franco, 24, guilty of having a relationship with a teenager. In addition to the suspended sentence, he was prohibited from approaching minors for sexual purposes and was fined. The case, which began to generate controversy in 2023, resulted in Franco’s separation from the playing field, initially on administrative leave and then on the MLB restricted list, which prevented him from receiving his salary. MLB noted that, since 2015, its policy allows for the imposition of internal disciplinary sanctions, regardless of court decisions. The league is expected to announce in the coming days whether Franco will face an additional suspension or more severe measures that could affect his future in professional baseball.Major League Baseball is proud to have a Joint Policy on Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse, collectively bargained, which reflects our commitment to these issues. We are aware of the verdict issued today in the Wander Franco trial and will conclude our investigation at the appropriate time.
Official MLB Statement
