Report: Dodgers' deal with Maeda delayed over elbow concerns

Reported health concerns over Kenta Maeda's right elbow have slowed the Los Angeles Dodgers from making an official announcement regarding the signing of the Japanese pitcher, according to Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.

The two sides reportedly agreed over the weekend to an eight-year contract that includes significant performance bonuses. Despite the concerns, Crasnick indicates the deal is expected to be made official in the next few days.

BIll Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times adds that Maeda could earn more than $100 million in incentives, but could also make as little as $24 million if he's unable to remain healthy.

Maeda posted a 2.64 ERA with 1.05 WHIP across eight seasons in Japan, and joins a revamped Dodgers' rotation that also added Scott Kazmir this past week.

The Dodgers were believed to have agreed to a three-year deal with left-hander Hisashi Iwakuma earlier this winter before issues arose during his physical. The deal eventually broke down and Iwakuma signed a one-year deal to return to Seattle.