Under normal circumstances, Hector Olivera would have been the the international prospect to have this offseason if not for Yoan Moncada.
Despite that, just about every team in Major League Baseball had their hands in the Olivera cookie jar but it’s the Los Angeles Dodgers and their deep pockets who’ve won out as they signed Hector Olivera to a six-year, $62.5 million dollar contract.
It’s a hefty sum, but one the Dodgers can afford, especially if they get a return similar to that of Yasiel Puig.
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
Of course, the more talent that comes out of Cuba and finds near instant success in Major League Baseball will only continue to feel more added pressure. Combine that with the absurd amount of money being thrown around and it’s a lot of expecations to live up to, even for Hector Olivera.
Time will tell if the Los Angeles Dodgers made a worthwhile investment, but on the surface, at least right now, it looks like a solid (though very expensive) move.
Should be interesting to see how quickly the Dodgers bring Hector Olivera up to MLB.