Dodgers finalize deal with Cuban infielder Guerrero
Four-year contract with 26-year-old can reach $32 million after incentives
The Dodgers announced on Tuesday that they have agreed to a four-year deal with Cuban middle-infield prospect Alexander Guerrero that, according to industry sources, is worth $28 million.
Performance bonuses of $1 million per year increase the potential value of the contract to $32 million. The 26-year-old Guerrero will be eligible for free agency after his age-30 season upon the completion of the deal, which includes a $10 million signing bonus. In addition, Guerrero cannot be optioned to the Minor Leagues without his permission after the first year of the contract.
The 5-foot-11, 205-pound Guerrero is a veteran of Serie Nacional, the island's top league, and he was an All-Star in 2010 and '11 with Las Tunas. He defected from Cuba earlier this year, established residency in Haiti and has been training in the Dominican Republic. He was granted free agency by Major League Baseball in July, but not until Sept. 6 did he secure an unblocking license from the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), which would allow him to sign with a Major League team.
Guerrero participated in a series of showcases in July in front of scouts at the Dodgers' complex in the Dominican Republic, where Los Angeles eventually emerged as the favorite. Known for his powerful bat and speed on the bases, Guerrero felt slighted when he was left off the Cuban roster for the 2013 World Baseball Classic, and he eventually left the island.
The infielder was formerly represented by Rudy Santin and Manny Paula at MVP Sports Management and Consulting Agency, and was reportedly nearing a five-year, $32 million with the Dodgers last month before he signed with agent Scott Boras. The reported deal did not make him a free agent after the completion of the contract.
To make room for Guerrero on their 40-man roster, the Dodgers designated right-handed reliever Peter Moylan for assignment.