Rays' Wander Franco hits restricted list as MLB probes 'social media posts' involving player

Fox News Flash top sports headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

The Tampa Bay Rays and Wander Franco "mutually agreed" the shortstop will go on the restricted list and take a leave from the team amid MLB’s investigation into social media posts involving the player.

The Rays released a statement on Franco’s status hours after ESPN reported he wasn’t with the team as they make their way to San Francisco to start a series with the Giants on Monday night.

"The Tampa Bay Rays and Wander Franco have mutually agreed that he will go on the Restricted List and take leave from the Club for the duration of the current road trip," the Rays said Monday.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Wander Franco of the Tampa Bay Rays throws out Zack Short of the Tigers at first base at Comerica Park on Aug. 5, 2023, in Detroit, Michigan. (Duane Burleson/Getty Images)

Tampa Bay will be on the road through next Sunday. After the Giants, they take on the Los Angeles Angels. The Rays return home to face the Colorado Rockies starting on Aug. 22.

Franco was not in the starting lineup during Sunday’s loss to the Cleveland Guardians.

"During today’s game, we were made aware of the social media posts that are circulating regarding Wander Franco," the team said. "We take the situation seriously and are in close contact with Major League Baseball as it conducts its due diligence."

The Rays didn’t detail the nature of the social media posts.

Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco throws to first base in the seventh inning against the Miami Marlins at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, on July 25, 2023. (Jonathan Dyer-USA Today Sports)

ORIOLES' CEDRIC MULLINS MAKES LEAPING CATCH, HITS GO-AHEAD HOME