"Rays' Wander Franco Granted Conditional Release Amid Ongoing Investigation in D.R."

Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco has been conditionally released by a Dominican Republic judge amidst allegations of commercial sexual abuse and exploitation of a minor. Court documents reveal payments made to the mother of the teenage girl involved, and Franco is required to appear monthly before the Dominican Public Ministry and pay a financial guarantee. The case includes accusations of abduction and sexual relations with a minor, with potential penalties ranging from 20 to 30 years in prison for commercial sexual exploitation and up to five years for psychological and sexual abuse. MLB has placed Franco on administrative leave and is conducting its own investigation, with his future in baseball uncertain as the legal process unfolds.