The Atlanta Braves reached an agreement and signed veteran utility man Emilio Bonifacio to a one-year deal, according to Jon Morosi of Fox Sports.
Chris Cotillo of SB Nation reported that it’s a major league deal and that Bonifacio is guaranteed $1.25 million. There are incentives in the deal that could double the amount.
Bonifacio, 30, played with the Chicago White Sox in 2015 and struggled mightily. In 47 games (82 plate appearances), the switch-hitter slashed .167/.198/.192 with 13 total hits, four RBI, and only one stolen base.
He dealt with a left oblique strain during the season that dampened his performance on the field. In August, Bonifacio would sign a minor league deal with the Chicago Cubs, another former team he would go back to. He never reached the big leagues before seasons end, however, he did have some success in Triple-A which gives the thought he could bounce back this season.
In his nine years in the big leagues, Bonifacio has played with eight teams, including a previous stint with the Braves in 2014. That year he started out with the Chicago Cubs and was traded to Atlanta at the trade deadline. In 41 games with Atlanta (128 plate appearances), Bonifacio slashed .212/.273/.280 with 25 hits, one home run, six RBI, and 12 stolen bases.
Despite previously playing for the Braves, the scene in Atlanta couldn’t be any more different. This team come 2016 is still a young, rebuilding ball club and Bonifacio will be a good veteran who can help their maturation process.
As well as being an experienced player for this youthful team, Bonifacio brings versatility defensively, as he can play both the infield and outfield, and an element of speed off the bench. Every team, no matter their situation, needs a player like Emilio Bonifacio. He will be a welcomed addition to this Braves team.