Another possible sticking point: The Cuban federation, which is required under Olympic rules to be independent of the central government, could still prevent younger players from leaving Cuba. In the posting agreement with Asian countries, younger players are also prevented from joining M.L.B. To address the issue, the deal includes a one- or two-year waiting period for those players once they leave Cuba. hopes to provide the incentive for the Cuban federation to release younger players. It could also deter marginal players from leaving their Cuban teams in the hopes of reaching the majors before they are ready.

Source: New York Times December 19, 2018 21:11 UTC