Hector Olivera news
Padres are "positioning themselves as a favorite to land" Cuban infielder Hector Olivera
Tuesday was quite a day in the chase for Cuban free agent infielder Hector Olivera. The day began with news that the Atlanta Braves had issued Olivera an offer but that was just the beginning of a rumor filled day. Yahoo Sports' Jeff Passan reports that the San Diego Padres have emerged as the favorite to land Olivera and are considering an offer in the neighborhood of $50 million. Passan also indicates that the Braves, Oakland A's and Los Angeles Dodgers remain in the mix.
Hector Olivera hires new representation
Throughout Tuesday morning, multiple reports began to surface that Olivera had fired trainer and negotiation representative Rudy Santin and had replaced him with Greg Genske of Legacy Agency. Its not clear what kind of effect that has had on negotiations but it did raise a few eyebrows among teams. MLB.com's Jesse Sanchez and Yahoo Sports Jeff Passan had the news.
Braves, Dodgers and Padres have already performed physicals on Olivera
There were some questions in regards to health surrounding Olivera but various reports indicate that the Braves, Dodgers and Padres have all done physicals on him. So those teams should have a good idea of what they would be getting in Olivera from a health standpoint.
Summary
The story surrounding the Braves and Olivera is still a bit cloudy. The Braves were reported as to have extended an offer to Olivera but details of that offer weren't reported. Its possible that Atlanta is interested but may not be willing to pay as much as other clubs. It is also possible that Olivera's representation is using the Braves' interest to try and drive up the price tag for other clubs. At any rate, a decision from Olivera should come soon.
Braves News
Andrelton Simmons to make spring debut Thursday
Braves shortstop Andrelton Simmons has been slowed at the start of camp due to a strained oblique muscle. The injury wasn't thought to be serious but the team has played it safe so far. David O'Brien of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported on Tuesday that Simmons will make his spring debut on Thursday night against the New York Yankees.
Braves to get glimpse of Peraza's versatility
Jose Peraza may be the Braves second baseman of the future but the team will try to expand on his versatility this spring by having him do some work in center field.
"I think if you look in every camp, there are certain guys that have a lot of ability," Braves president of baseball operations John Hart said. "Even though you have [targeted for] one position, if they're young, it might get them to the big leagues a little quicker if they have some versatility."
Minor doesn't need surgery, but will start season on DL
Braves pitcher Mike Minor received good news on Tuesday after an MRI showed no structural damage in his shoulder. Minor will be shut down for two weeks to hopefully let some inflammation in the shoulder die down before he resumes throwing. Minor is expected to begin the season on the disabled list which will open another spot in the rotation.
MLB News
Cliff Lee will attempt to pitch with torn flexor tendon
Phillies pitcher Cliff Lee has a torn flexor tendon but for now will attempt to pitch through it according to ESPN's Jayson Stark.
Gavin Floyd re-injured the fractured elbow that ended his 2014 season
Gavin Floyd's 2014 season with the Braves ended due to a fracture in his elbow. After surgery, Floyd signed on with the Cleveland Indians but his comeback bid took a hit on Tuesday when he was diagnosed with a stress fracture in that same elbow.