Cuban infielder Alexander Guerrero has agreed to a four-year, $28-million contract, the Dodgers announced on Tuesday.
Guerrero's deal includes a $10-million signing bonus. Over the lifetime of the contract, the 26-year-old can earn an additional $4 million in bonuses based on plate appearances.
To make room for Guerrero on the 40-man roster, the Dodgers designated pitcher Peter Moylan for assignment.
"We feel Alexander can be an offensive infielder and a solid everyday player," said Dodger General Manager Ned Colletti. "We're looking forward to him competing for a middle infield position and becoming a key contributor in 2014."
"We've watched a lot of Alexander at the international level," said Dodger Vice President, International Scouting Bob Engle. “It’s been a true organizational effort to bring him aboard."
Guerrero projects as a second baseman in the major leagues.
This could mean Mark Ellis' days with the Dodgers are over. The 36-year-old Ellis' contract includes a $5.75-million team option, which the Dodgers are now likely to decline.
Scouts have raved about Guerrero's ability as a hitter. Guerrero's agent, Scott Boras, has compared Guerrero’s power to Dan Uggla's.
Guerrero worked out for the Dodgers several times at their training facility in the Dominican Republic.
-Dylan Hernandez
