Some of Bo Jackson's most memorable moments have come on Southern California sports fields. He'll get a chance to add to those memories when he signs today with the California Angels.
Jackson, who became a free agent three weeks ago, has agreed to terms with the Angels, his agent Arn Tellum said.Jackson will have his artificial hip examined by Dr. Lewis Yocum this morning and later attend a 2 p.m. MST news conference.
"He's delighted to be coming back," Tellum said Sunday. "He loves Southern California and he's very excited about being given this opportunity with the Angels."
Jackson will receive a contract for $1 million, with incentives that can take it to about $2 million, the Los Angeles Times said today. He will receive about $475,000 if he is released before opening day.
"From all our discussions (with the Angels), he'll be on the team," Tellum said.
Jackson was drafted by the Angels in 1985 but did not sign.
His pro football career ended with a hip injury he sustained in a playoff game for the Los Angeles Raiders at the Coliseum in January 1991. In July 1989, at Anaheim Stadium, home of the Angels, he led off the All-Star game with a monster home run to center field and went on to become the game's MVP.
Jackson, 31, missed the entire 1992 season after undergoing hip replacement surgery. Last year, he batted .232 with 16 home runs and 45 RBIs in 85 games for the Chicago White Sox. He started 26 games in left field, 17 in right field and 33 as the designated hitter.
He was paid $2.41 million in salary and bonuses by the White Sox.
Jackson did not start the first two games of last October's AL playoffs against Toronto and complained about it. He started the next three games as the DH, going 0-for-10 with six strikeouts.
The White Sox offered Jackson salary arbitration after the season, but he declined.