Jim Thome won’t have to wait too long to return to U.S. Cellular Field, as he’ll be showing up in his spankin’ new uniform on April 9, 2010 when the Minnesota Twins come to town for a three-game series.

The former White Sox slugger has agreed to a one-year deal with his ex-AL Central rival for a reported $2 million plus incentives. Thome, 39, will add some pop to the lineup along with another left-handed bat to the already threatening order including reigning AL MVP Joe Mauer, 2006 AL MVP Justin Morneau, and Jason Kubel, who hasn’t won an MVP, but could get an award if landing on the DL was a contest.

Did you guys know Thome isn’t even technically “over the hill” yet? I kinda thought he was in his late 40s. No offense, Jimbo.

“Throughout my career, I have been blessed to have amazing fans supporting me the whole way,” he said in a text to his fans. “This past week, it’s been no different. Thanks to the people of Chicago for making my playing time here so special. And to those who continue to follow my career, I hope to be able to give you a lot more to cheer about in the future.”

I’m sure Thome, along with the rest of the Twins, is looking forward to playing in his brand new ballpark, Target Field. He’ll have a shot at hitting career longball #600, if he manages to nail 36 bombs this year. Totally possible.