The San Diego Padres have emerged as the favorite to land Cuban infielder Hector Olivera who became a free-agent earlier this month, according to a report from Yahoo Sports.
The Padres are offering him a contract upwards of $50 million, according to the report.
Olivera, 29, displayed solid power in workouts for MLB teams and is expected to to be in the Majors right away.
He batted .316 with seven homers in 273 plate appearances last season while playing Santiago de Cuba in Serie Nacional.
However, teams have been concerned with a reported blood clot in his non-throwing arm (left), and he may also be dealing with issues to his ulnar collateral ligament in his right arm, according to the report.
Currently the Padres have Jedd Gyorko slated to start at second base and the third base battle is between Yangervis Solarte and Will Middlebrooks.
If signed, Olivera would presumably fill one of those spots.
Other teams interested include the Atlanta Braves, Oakland A’s, Los Angeles Dodgers and the Miami Marlins.
