Suspended MLB Star Reportedly Arrested Again

Wander Franco, a Tampa Bay Rays short stop who has been suspended from Major League Baseball since 2023 due to an ongoing sexual abuse case, has reportedly been arrested again. 

ESPN reports that the 23-year-old was arrested in his native Dominican Republic in the town of Maguana on Sunday. According to the reports, the arrest came after an altercation in a parking lot in which guns were drawn. Police say two guns were seized, with one presumably belonging to Franco, although the exact circumstances of the altercation remain unclear. 

It's the latest legal trouble for Franco, who is due to stand trial in the Dominican Republic in December on charges of sexual abuse, sexual exploitation against a minor and human trafficking after prosecutors in the country accused him of having a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl. He faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. 

While that case plays out, Franco is barred from leaving the country. He is also on indefinite administrative leave from Major League Baseball and remains under investigation under its domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse policy while the case is open. He is not, however, currently barred from carrying a gun, although it was not immediately confirmed whether he had the proper license and registration.