Hector Olivera Injury: Updates on Cuban Star's Elbow and Return

Hector Olivera may eventually become the next big Cuban baseball star to shine at the major league level, but he suffered a physical setback Thursday due to concern about his throwing arm.   

Continue for updates.

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Olivera Declared Free Agent

Friday, March 6

Olivera is a free agent and will be free to sign with any MLB team, according to Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com.

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Olivera Reportedly Has Damaged Ligament in Elbow

Thursday, March 5

“Serious concern exists that Cuban infielder Hector Olivera has a damaged ulnar collateral ligament in his throwing arm,” Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports reported. He may need Tommy John surgery as a result.

However, Baseball America's Ben Badler reported from Olivera's camp that the reports are not true:

Olivera is a second baseman who brings some power to his approach at the plate. That type of production is rare for a middle infielder in today’s game, which is why Olivera reportedly has at least one offer for more than $50 million, via Passan.

However, one would figure that any potential Tommy John surgery that results from this injury would greatly reduce his market. He is also 29 years old, so he likely has fewer seasons of prime production remaining than there would be if he were younger.

Passan noted that there were no signs of arm problems when he tried out for a number of teams, but this could be devastating news for his immediate future.