Dodgers Reportedly Sign Cuban Infielder Hector Olivera
It was a busy offseason for the Los Angeles Dodgers, even though they were unable to sign any of the young Cuban talent they were rumored to be interested in.
It appeared that their offseason would be done; however, they just signed a Cuban right-hander named Pablo Millan Fernandez and were still in the running for Cuban infielder Hector Olivera. Fernandez signed a minor-league deal and will transition from reliever to starter in the Minors. For Olivera, the Dodgers were one of several teams interested in the 29-year-old.
According to Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com, the Dodgers are reportedly the final team for Olivera, as they have signed him to a six-year deal:
Source: Cuban INF Hector Olivera has agreed to a 6-year, $62.5 million deal with Dodgers. $28MM signing bonus. Check http://t.co/mkcBse7p5i
— Jesse Sanchez (@JesseSanchezMLB) March 24, 2015
Olivera is an infielder that can play second, short or third base and who is deemed to be Major League-ready. While the Dodgers don’t necessarily have room for him on the current roster, they have three of their infielders in their last year of their contracts.
There was some concern about Olivera having a torn UCL, but it appears that he is fine. Once he is officially signed, the right-handed hitting infielder will likely join the Minor Leagues and get into playing shape. Barring any injuries, Olivera could spend the year developing and adjusting to a new country in order to be ready for the 2016 season. Because of his age, the Dodgers will not face any international signing penalties.
UPDATE (3:06 pm): The Los Angeles Dodgers have given themselves an insurance clause should Hector Olivera need Tommy John surgery.
Sources: Hector Olivera's contract includes clause that gives the Dodgers a seventh season at $1M if he needs Tommy John surgery.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) March 24, 2015
UPDATE (7:20 pm): A second MRI was conducted and it did reveal a tear in Olivera’s UCL; however, he isn’t worried about the tear.
Source: A recent MRI on Olivera's elbow showed slight tear in UCL. Led to clause that gives Dodgers a seventh season at $1M if he needs TJ.
— Jesse Sanchez (@JesseSanchezMLB) March 25, 2015
Hector Olivera has said all along that he feels fine & does not have a problem with his elbow. Says he's worked out for teams without issue.
— Jesse Sanchez (@JesseSanchezMLB) March 25, 2015
Dodgers 2015 Spring Training – Clayton Kershaw
