How Wander Franco built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.
Wander Samuel Franco Aybar, a Dominican professional baseball shortstop nicknamed "El Patron," plays for the Tampa Bay Rays in MLB. He debuted in 2021 and became an All-Star in 2023. As of August 13, 2023, he was placed on administrative leave while MLB investigates allegations of him having relationships with underage girls in the Dominican Republic.
1961: Set Record for Longest Run by a Player Under 21 Since 1961
In 1961, Wander Franco reached base safely for the 26th consecutive game, setting a record for the longest run by a player under 21 years old.
July 2, 2017: Signed with Tampa Bay Rays
On July 2, 2017, Wander Franco signed with the Tampa Bay Rays organization for a signing bonus of $3.85 million.
July 14, 2018: Hit for the Cycle
On July 14, 2018, Wander Franco hit for the cycle while playing for the Princeton Rays.
2019: Passed Ronald Acuña Jr.'s Contract
In 2019, Wander Franco became the youngest player in baseball history to sign a contract worth at least $100 million, passing Ronald Acuña Jr.'s eight-year, $100 million contract extension.
2019: Ranked Fourth Best Prospect
Prior to the 2019 season, Wander Franco was ranked as the fourth best prospect in baseball by Baseball America. He was later promoted to the Charlotte Stone Crabs and named to the All-Star Futures Game.
June 20, 2021: Promotion to Major Leagues Announced
On June 20, 2021, the Rays announced that Wander Franco would be promoted to the major leagues.
September 30, 2021: On-Base Streak Ends
On September 30, 2021, Wander Franco's on-base streak ended at 43 consecutive games, tying him with Frank Robinson.
November 23, 2021: Signed Contract Extension
On November 23, 2021, Wander Franco and the Rays agreed to an eleven-year, $182 million contract extension, with a club option of $25 million for a twelfth year.
2021: MLB Debut
In 2021, Wander Franco made his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut with the Tampa Bay Rays.
2021: Invited to Major League Spring Training
In 2021, Wander Franco was invited to major league spring training by the Rays, but began the season in Triple-A with the Durham Bulls.
April 22, 2022: First Multi Home Run Game
On April 22, 2022, Wander Franco had his first multi home run game against the Boston Red Sox.
July 4, 2023: Selected to First All-Star Game
On July 4, 2023, Wander Franco was selected to his first All-Star game as the roster replacement for Aaron Judge, who was injured.
2023: Reinstated to 40-Man Roster
Following the conclusion of the 2023 season, Wander Franco was reinstated to the 40-man roster by the Rays.
2023: Represented Dominican Republic in World Baseball Classic
In 2023, Wander Franco represented the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic, playing second base.
2024: Returned to Restricted List
At the start of the 2024 season, Wander Franco returned to the restricted list.