White Sox agree to minor league deal with Brad Penny

The White Sox have agreed to sign right-hander Brad Penny to a minor league contract, according to an industry source. Penny will receive an invitation to major-league spring training, and will likely have a chance to compete for the a rotation spot.

Penny, 36, made eight appearances (four starts) with the Marlins last season, posting a 6.58 ERA in 26 innings after signing a minor league deal last summer. He originally signed with the Royals last winter before being cut in spring training, and appeared in the majors for the first time since pitching for the Giants in 2012.

Though the White Sox currently have Chris Sale, Jeff Samardzija, Jose Quintana and John Danks slotted into their rotation, their fifth starter role is up for grabs. Penny will compete with Hector Noesi for the job, with prospect Francellis Montas potentially in the mix as well.

In fourteen major league seasons with six different teams, Penny is the owner of a lifetime 121-101 record and 4.29 ERA. He was a National League All-Star in 2006 and 2007, when he was with the Dodgers.