Cubs sign Emilio Bonifacio to minor-league deal

The Cubs have signed Emilio Bonifacio to a minor league contract, according to Gordon Wittenmyer of the Chicago Sun-Times. Bonifacio was designated for assignment and released by the White Sox recently, the team he signed a one-year, $4 million contract with in last winter.

Cubs sign Bonifacio for potential September reunion. Minor league deal.

— Gordon Wittenmyer (@GDubCub) August 25, 2015

During his stint with the White Sox, Bonifacio hit .167/.198/.192 in 82 plate appearances. He missed time due to a left oblique strain. But Bonifacio is returning to a place where he has had success. With the Cubs back in 2014, the 30-year-old hit .279/.318/.373 in 298 plate appearances.

Bonifacio brings a speed component to the table that can be used solely in pinch-running situations when the rosters expand in September.  He also can play multiple positions, including all three outfield positions, shortstop, second base and even a rare appearance at third.