The White Sox agreed to sign first baseman Travis Ishikawa, MLBTR has learned. He'll join their Triple-A Charlotte club. Ishikawa recently elected free agency after being designated for assignment by the Yankees.
After signing a minor league deal with the Orioles in December, the 29-year-old Ishikawa hit .316/.413/.525 in 208 plate appearances. His contract was selected as his opt-out date approached, but the Orioles designated him soon after. A waiver claim by the Yankees led to even less playing time. Ishikawa, a former 21st round draft pick of the Giants, did fine work at Triple-A but has yet to find a consistent opportunity in the Majors this year. Lars Anderson and Andy Wilkins have played first base for the Charlotte Knights this year; both have struggled offensively. For the big league club, Adam Dunn and Paul Konerko have combined for a .750 OPS at the position.
