Start of new trial for Rays' Wander Franco postponed

The All-Star shortstop's retrial on sexual abuse charges delayed until March 30.

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The start of a new trial for Tampa Bay Rays star shortstop Wander Franco has been postponed until March 30. Franco was found guilty in June of sexual abuse of a minor, but both sides appealed the verdict, leading to a retrial that was originally scheduled to begin on February 20.

Why it matters

The Rays have been awaiting the outcome of Franco's legal situation, as the 25-year-old All-Star is a key part of the team's lineup and future plans. The delay in the retrial adds further uncertainty around Franco's status and availability for the upcoming season.

The details

After being found guilty in June, both Franco's legal team and prosecutors appealed the verdict, leading to a retrial that was originally scheduled to start on February 20. However, the start of the new trial has now been pushed back to March 30, further delaying a resolution in the case.

  • Franco was found guilty in June 2025.
  • The retrial was originally scheduled to begin on February 20, 2026.
  • The retrial has now been postponed until March 30, 2026.

The players

Wander Franco

The 25-year-old All-Star shortstop for the Tampa Bay Rays who was found guilty of sexual abuse of a minor in June 2025, but is awaiting a retrial on the charges.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on March 30 whether to uphold the original guilty verdict or order a new trial for Wander Franco.

The takeaway

The delay in Franco's retrial adds further uncertainty around the Rays' star shortstop and his availability for the upcoming season, as the team and fans await a final resolution in the high-profile legal case.