Wander Franco Convicted in Dominican Republic Case, But No Prison Time

Franco was found guilty in a Dominican Republic retrial of sexual and psychological abuse of a minor but will not serve prison time because a three-judge panel granted him a judicial pardon; the conviction remains, and the minor’s mother was given a ten-year sentence for money laundering and threats. The verdict echoes last year’s outcome, with a full reading planned for June 16, while MLB and the Rays said they will cooperate with the league’s policy review; visa issues and possible MLB suspension could impede his return to the U.S. or active play.