MLB PLAYER NEWS

Beckham back with White Sox; Viciedo out

The Sports Xchange

January 28, 2015 at 1:20 pm.

Gordon Beckham is headed back to Chicago. Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago White Sox brought back infielder Gordon Beckham on Wednesday and decided to cut ties with outfielder Dayan Viciedo despite signing him to a one-year deal worth $4.4 million two weeks ago.

Beckham signed a one-year, $2 million contract to return to the team that traded him to the Los Angeles Angels in August. To make room on the 40-player roster, the White Sox designated Viciedo for assignment — a possible precursor to a trade.

Beckham, 28, played his first five-plus seasons with the White Sox and figures to compete for time at second base or be used as a utility infielder.

“Adding Gordon improves the depth and flexibility of our roster,” general manager Rick Hahn said in a statement. “We are thrilled to have him back. Like Emilio Bonifacio, Gordon brings the ability to play solid defense at multiple positions or play on an everyday basis should the need arise. This also gives (manager) Robin (Ventura) the ability to play matchups more effectively when setting the lineup.”

Since a solid rookie season in 2009, Beckham has become known more for his defense. He hit just .226 with nine home runs and 44 RBIs last season with the White Sox and Angels and has a .245 career average, with 63 home runs and 264 RBIs.

Viciedo, 25, hit .231 with 21 home runs and 58 RBIs last season, and the White Sox avoided arbitration with the $4.4 million contract earlier this month. The White Sox reportedly have been trying to trade him.