Joliet Jackhammers Offer Big Hurt a Contract

By Benjy Lipsman in News on Apr 23, 2008 10:09PM

Former White Sox first baseman and designated hitter Frank Thomas abruptly parted ways with the Toronto Blue Jays this week by "mutual agreement."

Thomas was in his second season with the Jays. After trading for Jim Thome prior to the 2006 season, the White Sox said goodbye to the future Hall of Famer, who had spent 16 seasons on the South Side. Thomas proved he still could play, hitting 39 home runs and 114 RBIs for Oakland in 2006 and then signed with Toronto, where his 26 homers and 95 runs batted in led the team last year. But after a slow start (um... doesn't he always start out cold?) and confrontation over his benching, the Jays decided to send Thomas on his way.

Could the Big Hurt's free agency mean a return to Chicago? No, not with the Sox... or even the Cubs. The Joliet Jackhammers have made Thomas a contract offer to play for their minor league team.

There are quite a few Sox fans in this city who miss Frank Thomas, and would love to see him play locally again. But would Thomas -- who will still earn $8 million from Toronto -- accept an offer that's closer to his MLB per diem? The Jackhammers have offered Thomas $2000 a month plus a free apartment to use during the season. They might even be able to go as high as $3500 a month if Thomas would consider their offer. So does anyone think he'd bite?

If he does, Chicagoist is arranging a group outing to Joliet.