Andruw accepts Rangers' offer to stay around a few more days

Andruw Jones has accepted the Rangers' offer to remain with the organization for at least a few more days, according to sources. The Rangers had asked Jones to put off a decision Friday as to whether to leave the organization. Texas extended the offer with Jones beginning to show signs of regaining his swing the last couple days.

Jones -- who hit two home runs Thursday in a minor-league game -- was to decide Friday whether to declare his free agency after the Rangers told him he didn't appear likely to make the club. Jones' contract stipulates that he can opt for free agency if he's not added to the roster. But the five-time All-Star has decided to stay with the Rangers for at least a few more days.

Texas is stacked in the outfield with young and talented players -- including Josh Hamilton, David Murphy and Nelson Cruz -- but has increasing interest in keeping Jones in the organization.

Jones started very slowly this spring, and is 8-for-31 with 14 strikeouts in big-league games. But in recent days Rangers people are seeing a semblance of his previous Hall-of-Fame form. It also behooves Jones to stay, as his hitting guru, Rudy Jaramillo, is Texas' hitting coach.

If Jones' hot hitting continues, there's an outside chance the Rangers could try to trade Marlon Byrd. They also have been looking for offers for Frank Catalanotto, but a high contract may make that difficult.

If Jones does eventually decide to leave, the Yankees, Braves and Phillies were among teams showing interest before he decided to join Jaramillo with the Rangers.