Former Tampa Bay Rays Star Wander Franco Guilty Of Sexually Abusing Minor that...

Wander Franco, the former Tampa Bay Rays shortstop, has been found guilty by a Dominican court of sexual abuse of a minor, stemming from a months‑long relationship with a 14‑year‑old girl when he was 21–24. He was handed a two‑year suspended prison sentence, contingent upon meeting conditions like avoiding contact with minors

Key details:

Charges & conviction: Guilty only of sexual abuse; acquitted of related charges like exploitation and trafficking
The victim’s mother, Martha Vanessa Chevalier Almonte, convicted of trafficking her daughter, received a 10-year prison sentence plus asset forfeiture
Judge’s statement: She emphasized the minor was “manipulated” and warned Franco firmly, “Do not approach minors for sexual purposes,” adding he must “wait your time” before being with those much younger
Appeal & conditions: Franco’s attorney, Irina Ventura, says she will appeal, declaring “justice was not done.” If he breaches conditions, the full two-year prison term may be enforced d in baseball since August 2023. A U.S. work visa will be very difficult (if not impossible) to obtain with this conviction, and MLB is still investigating him for further disciplinary action Contract & finances: He signed an 11‑year, $182 million deal in 2021, but this ruling severely jeopardizes his career and the Rays’ ongoing commitment

💥 What this means:

Legally: He’ll avoid jail only if he abides by court conditions. Any violation—especially involving minors—could result in actual prison time.
Professionally: His baseball career is effectively over. MLB is reviewing further discipline, the Rays may void his contract, and immigration hurdles are formidable.
Financially: His $182 M contract is likely in peril—potentially voided or reduced—and earning in baseball becomes nearly impossible.

This verdict marks a decisive end to Franco’s once‑bright future. He’ll still have the option to appeal via Dominican higher courts, but any chance of returning to MLB seems effectively gone.

If you’d like, I can track updates on the appeal or MLB’s response.