White Sox sign Austin Jackson to 1-year, $5 million deal

The White Sox have been searching for outfield help and agreed to a 1-year, $5 million deal with veteran Austin Jackson, according to MLB Network Insider Jon Heyman.

Jackson's deal with Chicago will be worth $5 million, Heyman adds. He reportedly had the opportunity to play elsewhere and receive more money, but decided to remain remain in Chicago after spending time with the Cubs in 2015.

Chicago was linked to Jay Bruce and Carlos Gonzalez on Saturday, since the organization reportedly expressed interest in adding a left-handed power bat. However, the club was not thought to be in trade discussions with either player and the White Sox would have been forced to part with prospects to add one of the two.

Baltimore was thought to be another team interested in Jackson since, like the White Sox, the Orioles are hoping to add another outfielder.

Over 136 games with the Mariners and Cubs last season, Jackson batted .267/.311/.385 to complement nine home runs and 48 RBIs. Jackson also stole 17 bases in 2015 and adds speed to the White Sox's lineup.

Jackson is a career .273 hitter and he should have the opportunity to start in center field throughout 2016. He spent time in center with the Mariners but played in both corner outfield spot with the Cubs, who acquired him in an August deal.

Although Jackson might not have power numbers comparable to those of Bruce or Gonzalez, the White Sox did not lose much. Colorado was reportedly seeking a pair of prospects and a big league ready player in exchange for Gonzalez.

Adam Eaton, who is currently nursing a shoulder injury, will likely move to a corner as a result of the Jackson signing. Avisail Garcia, who batted .257 while having difficulty defensively in right field last season, will likely receive less playing time.

Chicago's defense was the worst in baseball last season. The addition of Jackson should prove to benefit the lineup and outfield defense in 2016.