LOS ANGELES, Nov. 22 (UPI) -- Outfielder Juan Pierre Wednesday signed a five-year, $44 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Pierre played every game for the last four years with the Chicago Cubs.
While playing centerfield in 2006, Pierre, 29, did not commit an error in 384 fielding chances. He batted .292 with three home runs, 40 RBI and 58 stolen bases -- and had a major league-leading 204 hits.
"Juan's ability to hit combined with his speed make him a perfect catalyst for our lineup," Dodgers General Manager Ned Colletti said in a statement on the team's Web site. "His work ethic and character are second-to-none and he knows what it takes to win."
Pierre likely will be the team's leadoff batter, with shortstop Rafael Furcal (.300, 15 home runs) hitting second.
Pierre was the toughest batter in the National League to strike out. His 13 triples and 58 stolen bases total ranked second in both categories.
