Dodgers sign cousin of MLB MVP

Aug 16, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; Detailed view of Los Angeles Dodgers hat and glove in the dugout against the Atlanta Braves in the first inning at SunTrust Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Dodgers already have the reigning AL MVP, and now they have the cousin of the reigning NL MVP as well.

Ben Badler of Baseball America reports this week that the Dodgers have signed Venezuelan shortstop Yojackson Laya. The teenager Laya is the cousin of Atlanta Braves MVP winner Ronald Acuna Jr.

Monday marked the official start of MLB’s international signing period. That opened the door for the Dodgers to formally sign Laya, who is reportedly a product of the Izturis Baseball Academy in Venezuela.

Laya is receiving a $150,000 signing bonus as part of his deal with the Dodgers. He also continues on a banner week of famous baseball family members signing with marquee NL teams.