"There's more reason than ever for Juan Carlos Oviedo to make his way back to the United States and a major league pitching mound. Actually, there are six million reasons.

The Marlins and Oviedo — the pitcher formerly known as Leo Nuñez — agreed on Tuesday to a contract that would pay him $6 million next season.

But Oviedo will never see a nickel of it if he is unable to leave the Dominican Republic, return to the United States and play baseball. Oviedo continues to work through the legal hurdles to allow for his return, perhaps in time for Opening Day in April.

"We're hopeful for that," said Oviedo's agent, Andy Mota."