Andruw Jones could stick with Rangers as backup

[March 23, 2009]  PHOENIX (AP) -- Andruw Jones could stick with the Texas Rangers through spring training, even though he won't be a starter and there is no guarantee of him making the team.

During a meeting Sunday with general manager Jon Daniels and manager Ron Washington, the five-time All-Star said he would be willing to remain with Texas as a backup outfielder and part-time designated hitter.

Jones was told he wouldn't be a regular starter for the Rangers, but Daniels says Jones expressed a desire to stay with Texas in any role. Daniels says no decision has been made.

Jones and the Rangers agreed Friday to extend by three days the deadline for a provision in his minor league contract that would allow him to become a free agent if he's not put on the big league roster. The extension pushed the deadline to Monday.

[Associated Press]

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.