Marlins go back to the past, sign Juan Pierre

      Juan Pierre is back. The Marlins have agreed to terms with Pierre, a key catalyst on their 2003 World Series team, on a 1-year deal worth $1.6 million.

       Pierre, 35, had a bit of a resurgence last season with the Phillies when he hit .307 and stole 37 bases in 130 games. He ranks first among active players in stolen bases with 591 and 19th in hits with 2,141.

       With both Jose Reyes and Emilio Bonifacio bound for Toronto, Pierre would appear to be the likely candidate to move into the leadoff spot. Pierre, who lacks a strong throwing arm, was used exclusively in left by the Phillies and has not played in center -- where he was a permanent fixture during his three seasons with the Marlins -- since 2009.

       Pierre did not miss a game with the Marlins from 2003-05.

       Pierre was unloaded the last time the Marlins had a major roster overhaul. He was traded to the Chicago Cubs in December, 2005, for Ricky Nolasco, Sergio Mitre and Renyel Pinto.

       Pierre and new manager Mike Redmond were teammates on the 2003 and '04 Marlins.