Marlins interested in Cuban infielder Hector Olivera

JUPITER -- Count the Marlins among teams interested in Cuban infielder Hector Olivera, a 29-year-old impact player who is now regarded as the best available free agent.

According to sources, the Marlins have had discussions with Olivera's representatives. Whether the Marlins can afford Olivera given reports that the price tag could be anywhere from $50-70 million is unclear. While many believe Olivera is major-league ready, the Marlins are set at second base with Dee Gordon and third with Martin Prado. So finding room on the infield for the Cuban star is another question.

There was yet another development on Tuesday when it was reported that Olivera had changed representatives, going from Rudy Santin to Greg Genske. The Marlins had had conversations with Satin, so whether the switch impacts the Marlins in any way is also unclear.

But sources said the idea of playing and living in Miami is appealing to Olivera, and the Marlins have sent scouts to look at him numerous times.

Olivera played 10 seasons in the Cuban National Series, hitting .323 with 96 home runs and 433 RBI.

Other teams that have been connected to Olivera include the Braves, Padres, Dodgers, Mariners, Yankees, Giants and A's. The Braves have reportedly made an offer.

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Mat Latos will make his first spring training start on Friday when the Marlins face the Cardinals. Latos was scratched from his scheduled first start on Monday and instead pitched a two-inning simulation game on one of the backfield diamonds.

"We got exactly what we needed out of it," Latos said.

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Adeiny Hechavarria said he was ready to return to game action Tuesday. But the Marlins decided to give the shortstop another day to rest what's been termed as a "tired arm."

"He says he's feeling better," said manager Mike Redmond. "But we want to get him out here, make some throws, go through a full day of activities, before we send him out in a game."

Redmond said Hechavarria, who has missed all but one spring game so far, might be back in the lineup as early as Wednesday.