Sen. Amy Klobuchar helps Tony Oliva reunite with brother from Cuba for Hall of Fame induction

Minnesota Twins legend Tony Oliva will not have to wait much longer to be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame – and his brother will be there to watch it happen

Thanks to Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., and the Minnesota Twins helping to obtain a visa for Oliva's brother, Juan Carlos Oliva, who resides in Cuba, will be able able to attend Oliva's induction on July 24 in Cooperstown, New York. 

"I appreciate you very much, Minnesota Twins. Amy, I understand you have been through it for us and how much (work) you put in … for my little brother to be here," Oliva said Sunday during a news conference at Target Field.

The United States in May re-established limited consular services in Cuba. The embassy had been closed for nearly five years following reports of unexplained health problems among some employees, which became known as the "Havana Syndrome."  

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In order for Cubans to travel to the U.S., they have to travel to other countries, which increases the time and costs. 

Carlos Oliva said his next visa appointment had been scheduled for 2024. Klobuchar said this case shines a light on the importance of having a strong relationship between the U.S. and Cuba.  

"It is possible for us to change foreign policy when it comes to Cuba because what we have been doing has not been really working, and I think it is time to open the doors more," Klobuchar said 

Tony Oliva, an eight-time All-Star, is ecstatic to have his younger brother in attendance for a moment to commemorate his baseball career. 

"Everything worked out perfect. I’m really happy," Oliva said. "That would be another dream for me for America and Cuba … to be a friend again."