Austin Jackson remains a free agent as teams swing into full gear at spring training.
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Jackson Reportedly Turned Down Angels’ Offer
Thursday, Feb. 25
The Los Angeles Angels reportedly offered Jackson a one-year deal worth around $5 million to $6 million, according to Alden Gonzalez of MLB.com, citing a source. However, Jackson and his agent, Scott Boras, turned down the deal, seeking more money.
Now the Angels appear set to ride with their current contingent until Opening Day, per Gonzalez.
By acquiring Jackson at the rate reportedly offered, the Angels would’ve exceeded the $189 million luxury-tax mark, per Gonzalez, which they are currently below by $2 million to $3 million.
It’s possible Jackson, a career center fielder, was also hesitant at the left field platoon role the Angels wanted him in alongside Daniel Nava and Craig Gentry, per Gonzalez. Without contributing as an everyday bat, Jackson wouldn’t have his value next offseason grow much.
The 29-year-old righty is a career .273/.333/.399 hitter who hits better against right-handed pitching, which would’ve made him an odd fit in Anaheim:
The Angels were criticized for not taking an aggressive approach to replace Josh Hamilton in left field while maintaining their belief they were postseason contenders.
Gone are blue-chip free agents Jason Heyward, Alex Gordon, Justin Upton and Yoenis Cespedes, leaving the Halos with a pair of platoon players who struggled mightily in 2015. Jackson may not have been the answer, but Gentry and Nava are coming off seasons where they hit below .200 and played in a combined 86 games.
With the Houston Astros and Texas Rangers each reaching the playoffs last year behind young talent, it’s hard to imagine the Angels emerging from the back of the pack in the American League West.
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