Dec. 31--Free-agent outfielder Chris Denorfia has signed a one-year, $2.6 million deal with the Cubs on Wednesday, adding another veteran to the mix.
Barring another acquisition, Denorfia is likely to platoon in left field with left-handed hitting Chris Coghlan. He has a .292 career average against left-handers with a .358 OBP, while Coghlan has a .382 career average vs. right-handers with a .346 OBP.
Denorfia, 32, hit a combined .230 with the Padres and Mariners last season, including a .195 average in 82 at-bats with Seattle after being acquired at the trade deadline. He has a .272 career average and 16 home runs over nine seasons, can play all three outfield positions and is considered a good presence in the clubhouse.
Denorfia was drafted by the Reds in the 19th round of the 2002 draft. Cubs general manager Jed Hoyer had Denorfia with the Padres when Hoyer was GM in San Diego, and Anthony Rizzo was a former teammate.
The signing was first reported by foxsports.com.
