The Chicago White Sox got the leadoff man and left fielder they needed and Juan Pierre got the chance to be an everyday player again.
The White Sox acquired Pierre and $10.5 million from the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday for two players to be named.
photo credit: dizzy-eyed
“They already have a good team in place,” Pierre said on a conference call. “They’ve been accustomed to winning over the last four or five years. I’m looking forward to getting out there on the field on a regular basis.”
The 32-year-old Pierre hit .308 with 30 stolen bases, 57 runs and a .365 on-base percentage in 145 games with the Dodgers last year, getting steady playing time when Manny Ramirez was suspended 50 games for violating baseball’s drug policy. Once Ramirez returned, Pierre became a reserve again.
Pierre gives the White Sox a speedy left fielder and leadoff hitter. Scott Podsednik, who filled the leadoff role much of last season, is a free agent.
“Juan is certainly someone that fits the bill,” general manager Ken Williams said. “Love the guy’s work ethic. Love his intensity. He adds a lot to a club, other than just what he does on the field. But what he does on the field is pretty special.”
Pierre is a .301 career hitter with 459 stolen bases, most among active players, and 804 runs scored in 1,433 games with Colorado (2000-02), Florida (2003-05), the Chicago Cubs (2006) and Dodgers (2007-09).
