GLENDALE, Ariz. — The White Sox shored up their outfield by agreeing to terms with veteran Austin Jackson Sunday. The team did not announce the move but a club source confirmed Jackson is coming to the Sox on a one-year deal.
Jackson, who will receive a reported $5 million will give the Sox a needed defensive upgrade. He can play all three positions and may become the team’s starting center fielder. Adam Eaton has not played the outfield during Cactus League games because his left shoulder is not ready for game action, although he has been hitting well and with power.
Asked after Sunday’s Cactus League victory over the San Diego Padres when Eaton’s shoulder would become a concern, manager Robin Ventura said, “probably a week before the end of the (spring). But right now [trainer Herm Schneider is] not alarmed by it too much. I know Adam’s not, either. He’s feeling a lot better today than he was yesterday. Hopefully it’ll continue to improve but I don’t see it as anything structural.”
Eaton had arthroscopic surgery on his left shoulder during the offseason and has been limited to designated hitter duties but has said he will definitely be ready to play the outfield by the beginning of the season.
Jackson, 29, spent most of the 2015 season with the Seattle Mariners before going to the Cubs in August. He batted .267/.311/.385 over 527 plate appearances.