Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco has taken to social media to discuss the recent allegations claiming he’s been involved with a minor.
The Rays placed Franco on the restricted list this Monday, with both the team and the MLB opening up investigations following the claims. But the player has flat-out denied them, taking to Instagram on Sunday to share a live video in which he rubbished the rumors.
Tampa Bay Radio host Jay Retcher posted the clip to Twitter with a translation of what Franco said.
“They say that I’m in public with a little girl, that I’m running around with a minor,” the shortstop was quoted as saying. “People don’t know what to do with their time. They don’t know what they’re talking about. That’s why I prefer to be on my side & not get involved with anybody.”
Franco did not play for Tampa Bay against the Cleveland Guardians on Sunday. And manager Kevin Cash told reporters his absence was simply the result of a day off.
The Athletic has reported that the video above was recorded inside the Rays’ clubhouse about an hour before Sunday’s game. The allegations surfaced on social media shortly after.
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It’s also noted that the teammate Franco speaks to during the stream is Joe Siri.
The Rays confirmed they’re aware of the allegations in a statement.
“During today’s game, we were made aware of the social media posts that are circulating regarding Wander Franco,” it reads. “We take the situation seriously and are in close contact with Major League Baseball as it conducts its due diligence.”
The player is set to remain on the restricted list until the end of the Rays’ road trip on August 20.
