"Our scouts really like him and how he fits because he's a left-handed hitter that can play all three spots in the outfield," Tigers manager Jim Leyland said in a telephone interview. "But I think it was a great trade for both teams because Infante can really help a National League team because he can play short, second, third and in the outfield."

Jones took over as Chicago's starting center fielder in the second half this season. In Detroit, he's expected to split time in left with Marcus Thames and provide depth behind Curtis Granderson and Magglio Ordonez at the other outfield positions.

The Tigers missed the playoffs this fall after a surprising run to the 2006 World Series. Hoping for a return to the postseason next year, they addressed a major need two weeks ago by trading for All-Star shortstop Edgar Renteria from Atlanta for two prospects. Detroit also agreed today to a $7 million, one-year contract with closer Todd Jones, who had become a free agent.

"The Tigers just seem to be getting better every winter," Todd Jones said. "We officially don't have an out in our lineup anymore."

Jacque Jones hit .285 with five homers, 33 doubles and 66 RBIs in 135 games last season, his ninth in the majors. He signed with the Cubs before the 2006 season after playing for Minnesota from 1999-05.

"He gives us another left-handed bat that we wanted in the lineup," Tigers president Dave Dombrowski said. "He's also an established major league winning player that gives us some flexibility in the outfield."