Former Phillie Peter Bourjos Signs With Chicago White Sox

Jul 5, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies right fielder Peter Bourjos (17) steps on third base after hitting a solo home run during the first inning against the Atlanta Braves at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 5, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies right fielder Peter Bourjos (17) steps on third base after hitting a solo home run during the first inning against the Atlanta Braves at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Another former Phillies starter is on the move

According to Colleen Kane of Chicago Tribune, free agent outfielder, Peter Bourjos, has signed a minor league deal with the Chicago White Sox.

Although the full details of the deal are not yet available, it does appear that it does include an invitation to Spring Training.

Bourjos, 29, played in 123 games for the Phillies in 2016 posting a .251 batting average along with 32 extra base hits. Bourjos ended the season eighth overall in triples (seven) and second overall in fielding percentage for right fielders (.995%).

Bourjos joins a White Sox team coming off of a 78-84 season (4th in AL Central). It looks as if the seven-year veteran will once again find himself in the midst of a rebuilding process. The White Sox jettisoned franchise pitcher Chris Sale this off-season all but sealing the team’s direction moving forward.

As it stands today, it can be assumed that incumbent left fielder, Melky Cabrera is the only lock in the Chicago outfield and Bourjos will find himself competing against a plethora of young prospects looking to either break in or maintain their standing within the league.

Look for Bourjos to make the team out of Spring Training and see usage similar to that as he did in Philadelphia. Bourjos should find himself in a platoon role with a rookie, Charles Tilson, while also serving as a stand-in for Carbrera and right fielder Avisail Garcia on rest days.