Key witnesses were absent and the trial could not proceed
Wander Franco’s trial for his alleged involvement with a minor in the Domincan Republic has been postponed until June 2nd, 2025.
The trial had been slated to begin earlier today. The reported reason for the postponement is that only three of the 36 witnessed called upon to testify in the case were present in the courtroom. Among the missing witnesses, according to Diario Libre, were the medical and psychological personnel who examined the victim.
Franco is accused sexual involvement with a 14-year old girl in the Dominican Republic. He is also facing charges related to a gun-related altercation last month and is being charged with illegal use and possession of a firearm.
According to reports, the trial is expected to last anywhere from three to eight months.
When the allegations first emerged in August of 2023, the Rays placed Franco on paid administrative leave. This past July, a judge ruled that Franco’s case will proceed to trial, which allowed the Rays to place him on the restricted list, removing him from the 40-man roster and allowing the team to withhold his salary.
Wander Franco had signed a 11-year, $182M contract with the Rays following the 2021 season. Franco received $1.4M in 2022 and $2.45M in 2023. Franco and the Rays negotiated an undisclosed amount until he was replaced on the restricted list in July. There is roughly $173M remaining on Franco’s contract.
