Former Cubs’ utilityman Emilio Bonifacio signs with Chicago White Sox

Super utility man Emilio Bonifacio has completed a deal with the Chicago White Sox. This means the versatile infielder will return to the city but this time he will play for the crosstown rivals. For two teams that don’t seem to like each other, the Sox sure do like former Cubs players.

Bonifacio spent only half a season with the Cubs, but he managed to make a big impact both on and off the field. He started the 2014 season off to a blistering start but he was unable to sustain that pace as the season advanced. He also gave the team solid defense all over the field as his greatest asset was his defensive versatility.

Bonifacio was also considered a great clubhouse guy. He installed the “Lo Viste?” sign among the players – every time someone made a spectacular play, he put two fingers between his eyes meaning if the others “saw” the play – and he was also a communication bridge between Latin and American players.

Bonifacio’s new deal is a one-year contract worth $3 million and it includes either a $1 million buyout or a $4 million club option for 2016.

Bonifacio fills the Sox’s need for a veteran utility player after he played 73 games in the outfield and 31 at second base. He also saw time at shortstop and at third base with both the Cubs and the Atlanta Braves – who traded for him at the deadline in 2014.

He’s a safe signing as he can move around to play just about anywhere, getting his at-bats wherever he can, and spelling players if they fall into a slump.

The 29-year-old Bonifacio is a career .262 hitter and batted .259 with 24 RBIs in 110 games in 2014. He was also a threat on the basepaths after finishing with 26 stolen bases last season, good for 21th in all of baseball.

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