CHICAGO (AFP) — Nick Swisher, a 27-year-old Major League Baseball outfielder who smacked 22 home runs last season, was traded from the Oakland A's to the Chicago White Sox on Thursday for three minor-leaguers.
The White Sox outfielders struggled last season, with only Jermaine Dye able to find peak form consistently. Chicago had already signed Cuban slugger Alexei Ramirez to help bolster the outfielding corps.
"Nick is a quality switch hitter who consistently gets on base, hits for power and drives in runs," White Sox general manager Ken Williams said.
"Nick brings to the ballpark a mix of hard-nosed play, energy and a commitment to winning, and he brings it each and every day. He's a great addition to our team and clubhouse."
Swisher, set to begin his fourth major league season this year, batted .262 and drove in 78 runs last year in 150 games for the A's. He also walked 100 times and reached base 38.1 percent of the times he came to the plate.
"He gives Ozzie Guillen offensive flexibility with his ability to hit in a number of spots up and down the batting order, and his athleticism allows him to play any outfield position or first base," Williams said.
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