WATCH: Controversial Rays shortstop Wander Franco seen taking batting practice in the Dominican Republic

Wander Franco has seen his star fall dramatically this year. After being labeled as one of the future superstars of the MLB, the Tampa Bay Rays shortstop has been connected to an alleged illegal relationship with an underage girl. Although there has yet to be a resolution to the ongoing investigation, Franco is away from the team as his MLB career hangs in jeopardy.

Even though there are questions about whether or not he will ever play in the MLB again, Wander Franco has been seen continuing to work on his game. In a video posted on social media by MLB insider Mike Rodriguez, the former All-Star was seen taking part in batting practice in Bani, Dominican Republic.

Although Franco, who is only 23 years old, appears healthy and could contribute at the major league level, there is a realistic chance that we have seen the last of him in the MLB. Mike Rodriguez also reported earlier this week that Franco is not allowed to have contact with the Tampa Bay Rays until the ongoing case against him is resolved.

Wander Franco has not played in the MLB in nearly one year

The last game that the controversial shortstop appeared in came on August 12, 2023, when the Tampa Bay Rays took on the Cleveland Guardians. The next day, Franco was placed on the restricted list after word of an alleged relationship with a minor spread across social media, leading to his dramatic fall from grace.

The former All-Star remains on administrative leave from the MLB and the Tampa Bay Rays as the investigation into the alleged relationship continues. Photos of Franco and the young girl went viral on social media, which led to the shortstop's arrest in the Dominican Republic. It remains to be seen what the outcome of the ongoing investigation will be.