The 24-year-old star shortstop of MLB is facing prison time for engaging in sexual relations with a minor, with a 5-year sentence being sought.

Major League Baseball (MLB)The 24-year-old star shortstop Wander Franco of the Tampa Bay Rays was exposed last year for having sexual relations with a 14-year-old girl, sparking significant uproar. A report from ESPN on the 24th indicated that prosecutors are seeking a 5-year prison sentence for Franco, with the final judgment to be announced on Thursday local time.

Franco

Last year, Franco was implicated in a scandal involving an alleged sexual relationship with a minor, reportedly paying the girl's mother 1 million Dominican pesos each month. Both MLB and Franco's home country, the Dominican Republic, are involved in the investigation.

Prosecutors have charged Franco with violations of sexual exploitation and money laundering laws, presenting multiple pieces of evidence. During a search of the girl's home, over 800,000 Dominican pesos and $68,000 in cash were discovered. The prosecutors are requesting a 5-year prison sentence for Franco, while the girl's mother is seeking a 10-year sentence. After both sides have completed their closing arguments, the court in Puerto Plata responsible for the case announced that it will reveal the final decision on this matter on Thursday afternoon.

Franco was already a highly regarded prospect in the minor leagues and has showcased his incredible talent since joining the majors. The Rays signed him to an 11-year, $182 million extension in November 2021, and he made his first All-Star appearance in 2023, achieving impressive stats of 17 home runs, 58 RBIs, and 30 stolen bases. However, he now finds himself entangled in legal troubles, which is quite lamentable.