Hector Olivera is headed to Southern California…
The 29-year-old Cuban infielder has agreed to a six-year contract worth $62.5 million with the Los Angeles Dodgers, according to agent Greg Genske.
The deal includes a $28 million signing bonus, says Genske.
The agreement also includes an option for a seventh year, worth $1 million, if Olivera needs Tommy John surgery, an industry source told MLB.com. Olivera has a small tear in the ulnar collateral ligament in his right (throwing) elbow, according to a recent MRI, the source told MLB.com. Yahoo! Sports also recently reported there was concern Olivera had damaged his UCL.
Olivera’s camp denied any UCL injury following the Yahoo! Sports report.
Olivera, who turns 30 next month, drew interest from several other teams, including the Atlanta Braves, San Diego Padres, Miami Marlins and New York Yankees.
MLB.com was first to report Olivera’s deal with Los Angeles.
Olivera will join a crowded Dodgers infield that already features second baseman Howie Kendrick and shortstop Jimmy Rollins. Olivera likely will have the best chance to play third base, where Juan Uribe is expected to start.
Los Angeles also has Cuban infielder Alex Guerrero, who has been impressive this spring, and highly touted shortstop prospect Corey Seager.