Juan Carlos Oviedo, Marlins reach deal

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MIAMI -- Reliever Juan Carlos Oviedo avoided arbitration with the Miami Marlins by agreeing to a $6 million, one-year contract, but his visa status remains uncertain because he played under the assumed name of Leo Nunez until late last season.

Reliever Edward Mujica also avoided arbitration by agreeing to a $1.625 million, one-year deal Tuesday. Right-hander Anibal Sanchez and utilityman Emilio Bonifacio did not reach agreements and exchanged proposed salaries with the Marlins.

The agreement with Oviedo represents a raise of $2.35 million. He apologized last month for using a fake name and age, saying he falsified his identity when he was young to play professionally.

Oviedo returned to his native Dominican Republic in September, and the Marlins placed him on the restricted list. They may look to trade the right-hander after signing All-Star closer Heath Bell in December to a $27 million, three-year deal.

Oviedo is working toward obtaining a visa in time to rejoin the Marlins, although it's not clear if he will be with the team by Opening Day. Miami hosts St. Louis on April 4.

"We're hopeful for that," Oviedo's agent, Andy Mota, said, according to the Miami Herald.

Oviedo had 36 saves in 42 chances last year with a 4.06 ERA. He has 21 blown saves over the past three seasons.

Mujica went 9-6 with a 2.96 ERA in 67 games last season, his first with the Marlins.

Sanchez asked for $8 million, and the Marlins proposed a salary of $6.9 million. Last year he made $3.7 million and went 8-9 with a 3.67 ERA in 32 starts.

Bonifacio asked for $2.2 million, and the Marlins proposed $1.95 million. Last year he made $425,000 and hit .296 with 40 steals in 152 games, all career highs.

Information from The Associated Press was included in this report.

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