Another Cuban baseball player could join the MLB in 2015 and currently has the attention of the Yankees, Athletics, Padres and Nationals. The Baltimore Orioles are focused on signing a corner outfielder.
Second baseman Hector Olivera defected from Cuba back in September in hopes of pursuing an MLB contract. The 29-year-old still must be cleared by the U.S. government in order to sign with a team, but he's still garnering interest from a number of clubs who need middle infield help. The Yankees, Nationals and Athletics have a need at second base while the Padres are perhaps looking to build depth.
However, Olivera's age and health raise some questions. His bat has shown no signs of slowing down, but the veteran missed the entire 2012-2013 season because of a blood disorder and hasn't participated in any international tournaments since. He returned to action in Cuba for the 2013-2014 season and slashed .316/.412/.474 in 273 plate appearances, according to Baseball America. The rest of his stats from 2008-2012 can be seen here.
If he can stay healthy and play the field on a daily basis, he could be a solid addition to a club in need of a second baseman. He turns 30 in April.
As for outfielders, the Baltimore Orioles are searching for one more to fill the voids left by Nick Markakis and Nelson Cruz. The team already signed Delmon Young to a one-year deal, but they need one more to complete the outfield. According to FOX Sports' Jon Morosi, the Orioles are "having ongoing dialogue" with free agent Colby Rasmus and are "still showing interest" in free agent Nori Aoki.
The free agent market for outfielders has become thin and many teams have opted to trade for such players, but the Orioles have been reluctant to strike a deal. They were previously linked to Matt Kemp, Marlon Byrd and Seth Smith, but it seems as if all of those talks were preliminary. Aoki would be the best free-agent option for them because he's the best hitter available (.285/.349/.360 stat line in 2014).
A move should be coming soon since free agent signings are winding down.
