The Dodgers added another Cuban player to their squad by signing shortstop Erisbel Arruebarrena to a five-year contract worth $25 million.
According to MLB, Arruebarrena still needs to get a work visa to legally play in the United States. He is currently training in the Dominican Republic, and it's unknown when he will report to the Dodgers' spring training.
True Blue LA reports that Arruebarrena's deal includes a signing bonus worth $7.5 million. Arruebarrena batted in the Cuban Serie Nacional for six years and finished with a .276 batting average, 27 home runs and 171 runs batted in.
The Dodgers had previously signed a Cuban infielder in October 2013. Alex Guerrero was signed to a four-year deal worth $28 million by the Dodgers, and he has been slated to start at second base.
General manager Ned Colletti stated that shortstop Hanley Ramirez is open to changing positions if he has to make room for Arruebarrena.
The Dodgers will look to defend their National League West title as they enter the season a leading World Series contender.
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