In a development that has shocked the baseball world, Tampa Bay Rays' star shortstop Wander Franco has been placed on administrative leave through June 1 due to an ongoing investigation into allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a minor. The decision, reached under an agreement between Major League Baseball (MLB) and the players' association, comes as the Rays prepare to kick off their season against the Toronto Blue Jays.

The 23-year-old All-Star player was removed from the 40-man roster as news of the decision emerged, as reported by The Tampa Bay Times. The move has now been recorded on MLB's transaction wire. This isn't the first time Franco has faced such allegations, as he was previously placed on administrative leave in August after being accused of maintaining an inappropriate relationship with a minor when he was 21.

Originally facing charges of commercial and sexual exploitation and money laundering, which carried significant prison terms, a judge's resolution obtained by The Associated Press in January reveals that Franco is now accused of sexual and psychological abuse. It's important to note that he has not yet been formally charged.

Under his current 11-year, $182 million contract extension signed in November 2021, Franco was set to earn $2 million this season. Being placed on administrative leave will allow him to receive his 2024 salary even though he won't be reporting to spring training. However, MLB is expected to hold off on any potential disciplinary action until the criminal investigation in the Dominican Republic, Franco's native country, is completed. Prosecutors were granted a six-month period in January to present their case.

The MLB's decision to place Franco on administrative leave also grants them the flexibility to modify his status within the league if there are any significant developments in the case. It remains to be seen how this situation will unfold, and the baseball community will anxiously await further updates.

In the meantime, the Rays will have to adjust their roster and game plans as they navigate through this challenging situation. The absence of their talented young shortstop will undoubtedly leave a void on the field. The focus now shifts to both the progression of the investigation and how the team copes with Franco's absence during this difficult time.

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