The Obama administration announced Tuesday that it would allow Cuban citizens to work in the United States and receive salaries from American companies, a decision that could have a profound effect on the way major league teams sign Cuban baseball players.
Under the new guidelines, which go into effect Wednesday, it will now be legal for franchises to sign contracts directly with Cuban ball players. Previously, Cuban players had to defect before they could sign with a major league team.
The rules offer only a pathway for player signings. The Cuban government will have a big say in how negotiations and player movement unfold, so a rash of player signings is not imminent.