Hector Olivera was presented multiple contract offers a couple of weeks ago but has yet to make a decision. It's believed the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres could be in a "bidding competition" for the former Cuban star.
Jon Heyman of CBS Sports reported earlier today that "at least the Padres and Dodgers are still believed to be actively involved in bidding for star Cuban free agent Hector Olivera, according to people familiar with the talks." Olivera's agent, Greg Genske, said "several" teams are in the running for his client and he believes a deal could happen "soon."
The Dodgers and Padres have been linked to Olivera for months, but it wasn't until recently he could be formerly offered a contract after he was declared a free agent by Major League Baseball. The Atlanta Braves were the first to pounce on the situation and offered the 29-year-old a four-year, $40 million deal, but it's been said he's looking for a six-year pact with $10 million per season or the highest bidder. He was also offered a seven-year, $53 million deal from the Miami Marlins.
Other offers are believed to be in the five-year, $50 million range and higher, according to Heyman, but those from the Dodgers and Padres have not been disclosed. There have been previous reports suggesting these two teams would be going all out for the Cuban infielder, including one that said the Dodgers already gave him a physical and had strong interest in him, while the Padres were "positioning themselves as the favorite" to land him and were willing to go upwards of $50 million.
However, Olivera's situation is still a bit murky because another report emerged in recent weeks that suggested the infielder may have a damaged UCL in his throwing arm. According to sources, the Los Angeles Dodgers asked for a second MRI of Olivera's right elbow but were denied the request. The Cuban's representation has denied the report of the injury and said Olivera has conducted multiple workouts and physicals to prove his health.
Nonetheless, multiple teams are still in the mix for Olivera and at a fairly high price, so perhaps they aren't too concerned with the injury. Keep an eye out for the Dodgers and Padres in the coming days.
UPDATE: Olivera is expected to pick a team by Wednesday, according to Joel Sherman of the New York Post.
