Yankees News: New York in mix for Cuban second baseman Hector Olivera

The New York Yankees are one of the four teams reportedly in the mix for the services of coveted Cuban second baseman Hector Olivera.

Per Craig Calcaterra of NBC's Hardball Talk, "Ben Badler of Baseball America reports that the Athletics, Padres, Yankees and Nationals are all players for Cuban second baseman Hector Olivera."

Olivera, 29, defected back in September. He has currently yet to be cleared by the U.S. government, so there's no exact word on when he'll be available to sign.

Per Calcatera, he "also has some health concerns, having missed considerable playing time with thrombosis in his left biceps, keeping him out of international competition."

In club play this past season, Olivera posted a .316 batting average with an .886 OPS and  walked more than he struck out. His bat makes him an intriguing option for those willing to take a gamble on his current age and health history.

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