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Chicago White Sox cut Mat Latos, sign Justin Morneau
CHICAGO -- The struggling White Sox shook up their roster Thursday, signing veteran first baseman Justin Morneau and designating veteran right-hander Mat Latos for assignment.
Chicago placed Morneau on the 15-day disabled list after he agreed to a $1 million, one-year deal, which gives him a prorated base salary of $633,800. He can as much as $2.5 million more in performance bonuses based on up to 400 plate appearances.
The 35-year-old is a four-time All-Star and a former AL MVP, but he remained unsigned after December surgery on his left elbow.
Morneau, who said it hurt every time he swung last season in Colorado, expects to be ready sometime after the All-Star break.
"When I picked up a bat again, it felt better than it did at any point last year," Morneau said. "I think I can do this again and I want to do this again."
The White Sox have been searching for a lefty hitter in what manager Robin Ventura called a right-handed heavy lineup. Chicago ranked 22nd in the majors with a .242 average.
Morneau would earn $200,000 for 100 plate appearances, $300,000 for 150, $350,000 for 200, $400,000 each for 250, 300 and 350, and $450,000 for 400.
Chicago placed Morneau on the 15-day disabled list after he agreed to a $1 million, one-year deal, which gives him a prorated base salary of $633,800. He can as much as $2.5 million more in performance bonuses based on up to 400 plate appearances.
The 35-year-old is a four-time All-Star and a former AL MVP, but he remained unsigned after December surgery on his left elbow.
Morneau, who said it hurt every time he swung last season in Colorado, expects to be ready sometime after the All-Star break.
"When I picked up a bat again, it felt better than it did at any point last year," Morneau said. "I think I can do this again and I want to do this again."
The White Sox have been searching for a lefty hitter in what manager Robin Ventura called a right-handed heavy lineup. Chicago ranked 22nd in the majors with a .242 average.
Morneau would earn $200,000 for 100 plate appearances, $300,000 for 150, $350,000 for 200, $400,000 each for 250, 300 and 350, and $450,000 for 400.