TUESDAY, 10:16pm: Joel Sherman of the New York Post says the Rangers finalized their deal with Jones. He has contract details, including a March 20th opt-out.
SUNDAY, 8:31pm: Tony Jackson of the Los Angeles Daily News reports that the Dodgers will receive half of the money Jones gets from the Rangers in ’09.
8:01pm: Manager Ron Washington seems to think Jones will find success with the Rangers. This quote comes via Jeff Wilson of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram:
"[Hitting coach] Rudy [Jaramillo] liked what he saw in his swing and thinks he can help him be consistent," said Washington. "He could be an impact. He was an impact for 12 years in Atlanta… I’m excited to have him. I think it’s a big challenge for him. We’re looking forward to seeing what he may still have and how he can help us."
1:23pm: Jeff Wilson has confirmation of the deal from Rangers GM Jon Daniels. Jones can opt out of his contract on March 20.
10:45am: Joel Sherman of the New York Post reports the Rangers will sign Andruw Jones to a minor league contract in the next few days.
The deal is for $500,000 if he makes the big league club and includes $1MM in bonuses; however, Sherman notes, he would have to be a full-time player to earn the full one million. The Rangers already have five outfielders that Jones will need to compete with for a starting role, most notably David Murphy or Nelson Cruz – so his chances are slim. Even as a backup he’s competing with Frank Catalanotto and Marlon Byrd.
