Outfielder Jon Jay, who has not played for the White Sox since signing a one-year, $4 million contract in the offseason, is set to begin a minor league rehab assignment Monday night for Class AA Birmingham.
Jay, 34, a .285 career hitter with a .352 on-base percentage, figured to open the season as the Sox right fielder and leadoff man, but sustained a groin injury during spring training and has slowly worked his way back to health. His only game action since March was during extended spring training.
Jay has batted .275 or better in seven of his nine seasons in the majors. His .996 career fielding percentage in the outfield is highest among all active players.
The Sox, who have won six of their last seven games, have been platooning Charlie Tilson and Ryan Cordell in right field, with Eloy Jimenez playing left and Leury Garcia center. Jay can play all three outfield positions.
