Report: Braves in ongoing talks with Cuban infielder Olivera

The Atlanta Braves are engaged in ongoing discussions with the camp for Cuban second baseman Hector Olivera, according to Jon Morosi of FOX Sports.

Olivera, who is said to be seeking a five or six-year deal, was declared a free agent by MLB on Friday. The Braves are one of several teams, including the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres, believed to be front-runners to sign the 29-year-old infielder.

Representatives for Olivera denied a story last week that claimed he damaged his UCL and could require Tommy John surgery. Olivera's camp also refuted a report that said he was mulling at least one multi-year offer worth more than $50 million.

Scouts are impressed with Olivera's combination of power and speed at either second or third base. Baseball America ranked him the fourth-best Cuban prospect behind Aroldis Chapman, Yoenis Cespedes and Yulieski Gourriel at the 2009 World Baseball Classic.

The second base job in Atlanta appears to be wide open after offseason acquisition Alberto Callaspo reportedly entered camp out of shape. Callaspo, who signed a one-year, $3-million deal, is competing this spring against top prospect Jose Peraza, Phil Gosselin and Jace Peterson.