Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco has had a promising start in his MLB career. He was recognized as one of the premier international prospects in the 2017 international class, inking a deal with the Rays that same year.
The Dominican dedicated years to refining his abilities within the team's minor league system before making his much-anticipated MLB debut in June 2021.
The 22-year-old was selected in his first MLB All-Star Game in 2023, replacing injured New York Yankees star Aaron Judge.
However, amid a significant upswing in his career, the shortstop found himself entangled in a huge scandal involving an alleged inappropriate relationship with a minor.
Consequently, he was placed on the team's restricted list in August 2023, and since then, he has not participated in any MLB games.
Let's take a look at Wander Franco's contract, career earnings, salary, and the fate of his huge contract amid his current controversy.
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Wander Franco Contract: $182 million
Just five months after his MLB debut, the Tampa Bay Rays inked a massive 11-year deal with Franco in November 2021. The contract, valued at $182 million, spans from the 2022 season through to the 2033 season.
It is the richest contract in Rays history, as well as the biggest deal in MLB history for a player with less than a year of experience.
The agreement could potentially reach up to $223 million when factoring in the club option and achieved incentives.
Wander Franco Contract Fate
Given the ongoing investigation into his alleged inappropriate relationship with a minor, Franco's chances of securing a significant portion of his substantial contract are at risk.
To date, Franco has garnered $8 million from the agreed-upon sum, which means he could potentially miss out on a staggering $174 million due to the implications of the controversy surrounding him.
In accordance with MLB rules, contracts typically include a morality clause, safeguarding teams from significant financial payouts in the event a player is charged with misconduct.
If the allegations against Franco are confirmed, his contract may be deemed null and void under these stipulations.
Wander Franco Career Earnings
As of the 2023 MLB season, Franco has earned $12,847,662 from the Rays since signing with them in 2017, according to Spotrac. The number includes his initial minor league pact and the first three seasons of his MLB career.
The figure does not include additional income from off the field endeavors such as endorsements and partnerships, as well as other deductions such as taxes, agent fees and other business expenses.
Wander Franco Salary 2024
Assuming that the MLB allows Franco to play out the rest of his contract after their ongoing investigation, Franco is set to earn $2 million in the 2024 MLB season, which is the same figure he earned in 2023.
The 2023 MLB All-Star is set to receive a salary increase in 2025, with his compensation rising to $8 million, followed by a further boost to $15 million in 2026.
In the 2027 MLB season, Franco's salary is slated to reach $22 million, before stabilizing at $25 million from 2028 through 2033.
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