Wander Franco Announces Return to Baseball, Will Play for Dominican Republic in 2026 WBC

SANTO DOMINGO, DR - Disgraced former MLB star Wander Franco has announced he will suit up for Team Dominican Republic in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, per notable MLB insider Jeff Passan. Yes, that Wander Franco — the same one whose MLB career derailed after disturbing allegations surfaced regarding his relationship with a minor.

Speaking to reporters after the announcement, Franco didn’t shy away from his "unique" reputation:

“The goal is to get young eyes on the game, and that’s my specialty.”

Bold strategy, Wander.

While MLB teams continue to treat Franco like a radioactive glove, Team Dominican Republic is embracing the chaos. Manager Albert Pujols made it clear he’s focused on W’s, not PR disasters:

“Look, bygones are bygones. We’re here to win baseball games, not hand out moral awards.”

Sources say Pujols didn’t even flinch when asked about Franco’s legal situation, reportedly responding, “That’s between him and whatever country’s court system he’s dodging this week.”

MLB Twitter Reacts in Horror

As expected, MLB insiders and influencers took to Twitter (or X, for those still pretending that’s a thing) to express their disbelief:

Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan): "Wander Franco returning to international baseball is something I never thought I’d type. Buckle up."

Jomboy (@JomboyMedia): "Wander Franco back in a uniform is wild enough. The fact that it’s sanctioned? Insane."

MLB Nerds (@MLBNerds): "Franco’s WBC WAR projections: Infinite drama, negative morals."

Foolish Baseball (@FoolishBB): "Wander Franco leading off for the DR is proof we live in a simulation."

Updated Team Dominican Republic Lineup

Here’s how Team DR could line up with their newest addition:

1. Wander Franco, SS

2. Julio Rodríguez, CF

3. Juan Soto, RF

4. Vladimir Guerrero Jr., 1B

5. Rafael Devers, 3B

6. José Ramírez, DH

7. Jeremy Peña, 2B

8. Gary Sánchez, C

9. Teoscar Hernández, LF

   
   

Sandy Alcantara – SP

Emmanuel Clase – Closer

Note: Franco will also reportedly serve as team babysitter. Unconfirmed.

How Far Can They Go?

With or without the legal circus, this lineup is stacked. On paper, the Dominican Republic instantly becomes a favorite to win it all. The only question is whether the off-field distractions will derail the on-field dominance.

If Franco can somehow stay focused on baseball—and out of courtrooms—this team is a lock for at least a semifinal run. But knowing Wander, there’s always a chance the tournament ends with Interpol waiting at home plate.

Stay tuned. The 2026 WBC just became must-watch TV... for all the wrong reasons.