Following a two-game absence against the Kansas City Royals, Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco returned to the starting lineup for Saturday's game, the third in a four-game series. Franco's benching, which spanned Thursday and Friday's games, stemmed from concerns regarding his handling of in-game frustrations throughout the season. He was slated to bat second against Kansas City's starting pitcher, Jordan Lyles.
Franco expressed the difficulty of being away from the team, stating through a translator, "It’s been a challenging period, not being with the team. I’m glad to be back. It’s been tough." While Rays manager Kevin Cash refrained from providing specific details about the reasons behind Franco's benching, various incidents involving the shortstop throughout the season are thought to have contributed. These reportedly include baserunning mistakes, instances of not fully hustling on ground balls, and an incident where he broke his bat in frustration following an at-bat on Wednesday, as reported by The Associated Press.
Furthermore, according to the Tampa Bay Times, a verbal disagreement between Franco and teammate Randy Arozarena occurred in the dugout in May. Franco acknowledged the team's handling of the situation, saying, "I believe they've managed the situation effectively. I’ve been part of this organization for a considerable time, and I feel they've handled the mistakes I've made well." On Thursday, Cash addressed reporters, stating that the organization is committed to working with Franco. He described Franco as "a good person and a good kid. He’s a young player still developing and navigating the difficulties of playing in the majors, along with the associated frustrations." Cash added, "Throughout the season, there have been several instances where his reactions to frustration haven't aligned with our expectations for maintaining positive team dynamics."
Franco signed a substantial 11-year, $182 million guaranteed contract with the Rays in November 2021.
