The Philadelphia Phillies have reached a one-year agreement with free agent outfielder Juan Pierre. The contract is of the minor league variety and includes an invitation to Spring Training.
While the Phillies have been done make major additions for some time, general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. had said he would continue to be on the prowl for possible bench upgrades. Pierre provides the Phillies speed off their bench, something Amaro said he was looking for this winter.
Pierre spent the 2011 season as the White Sox left fielder. Over his 711 at bats, Pierre hit at a clip of .279/.329/.327 with 23 extra base hits, 80 runs scored and 27 stolen bases. For his career Pierre is a .296/.345/.363 hitter.
While John Mayberry Jr. is expected to become the Phillies everyday left fielder in 2012, Pierre will offer additional competition this spring along with fellow offseason acquisition Laynce Nix and in-house option Domonic Brown.
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