Dominican court pardons Wander Franco after sexual abuse conviction
Wander Franco, a former All-Star signed to an 11-year, $182 million extension with the Tampa Bay Rays, avoided prison after a Dominican Republic judge granted him a judicial pardon that overturned a June 2025 conviction tied to a months-long relationship with a 14-year-old. The court found Franco criminally responsible but ruled he was victimized by an extortion scheme allegedly led by the minor's mother, who was sentenced to 10 years and had more than $100,000 seized in raids. MLB's independent investigation remains ongoing, and visa barriers plus contract morality clauses could prevent Franco from resuming his major league career.
Franco avoided prison but faces visa and contract consequences.
Context
Allegations first surfaced in 2023 and led to a June 2025 conviction. The judge then…
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