The Rays confirmed on Sunday night that Major League Baseball is 1ly investigating social media posts linked to the All-Star shortstop Wander Franco.These widely circulated posts on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, allege that Franco, aged 22, has been involved in an inappropriate relationship with an underage individual.

The team issued a statement two hours following Sunday's 9-2 defeat against the Cleveland Guardians. “During today’s game, we were made aware of the social media posts that are circulating regarding Wander Franco, During today’s game, we were made aware of the social media posts that are circulating regarding Wander Franco,”

Despite the distribution of Wander Franco Snapback Hats for kids aged 14 and under, Franco did not make an appearance in Sunday's lineup. As an alternative, the Rays elevated highly-regarded prospect Osleivis Basabe from Triple-A Durham to fill his position. When questioned about further inquiries that revolved around social media "speculation," Cash affirmed his knowledge of the situation.

Following the match, Rays' General Manager Peter Bendix was observed walking through the Rays' clubhouse and entering Cash's office. However, he chose not to provide a statement, as relayed by a team representative.

The posts gained rapid viral traction shortly after the start of Sunday's game. By the game's conclusion, Franco's name had ascended to become the primary trending sports topic on the platform. Approximately three hours before the game, Franco entered Tropicana Field alongside at least one other player. He was visible in the dugout during the initial innings, but he left around the fifth inning and did not reappear. After the game, he was not located within the clubhouse.

A team attendant meticulously arranged Franco's baseball equipment inside a travel bag located at his locker. Right after the game, the Rays promptly headed to the airport, commencing their journey to San Francisco. There, they are scheduled to commence a three-game series against the Giants on Monday.

Certainly positioned among the top shortstops in the American League this season, Franco had been showcasing an exceptional offensive skill in recent weeks. He had secured hits in his previous seven games, with a standout moment being a walkoff victory over the Guardians, achieved by delivering a game-winning home run on Friday night at Tropicana Field.

With the backup shortstop, Taylor Walls, unavailable due to injury, Franco had taken on a considerable workload. His absence on Sunday marked the end of a streak of 40 consecutive games in which he participated.