The Twins welcomed back an old friend Tuesday as they announced the signing of outfielder Jacque Jones to a minor league contract.Jones was with the Twins from 1999-2005 and was part of the group that catapulted the Twins back into playoff contention back in 2001. The 35-year old has posted a career .277 average with 165 homers in his 10 big league seasons. After playing Independent baseball all of 2009, Jones is looking for his chance to get back into Major League Baseball after approaching the club this past winter.
What do I think about this? I like it. Jones is a non-roster invitee to Spring Training and has already said he would be willing to start the year in Triple-A Rochester if the Twins decided to keep him aboard. Really you are getting a veteran player who knows what this organization is about and has been on playoff teams in the past. Sounds like a deal to me.
As it stands now, the Twins will most likely break camp with four outfielders - Denard Span, Michael Cuddyer, Jason Kubel (who will primarily DH) and Delmon Young - and most likely won't have the need to carry a fifth on their bench.
I really like the idea of having Jones available in Triple-A should the need arise for him. It's another low-risk, high-reward type scenarios. If nothing else he's a good leader to have teaching those kids who are on the cusp of joining the big leagues.
Putting aside his free-swinging ways, Jones was always a fun player to watch and a good club house guy. It's always nice to see guys get a chance like this to make one last impression especially when its with his former club.
So I say welcome home Jacque. Welcome home.
[Photo courtesy of MarkKelley/Flickr]
