The MLB waiver trade deadline is coming up and Mariners outfielder Austin Jackson has cleared waivers and could be a target for teams like the San Francisco Giants, Texas Rangers, Kansas City Royals, Pittsburgh Pirates, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Angels or another contender heading into the playoffs, as Seattle is out of the mix.
According to Fox Sports, Jon Morosi reports that the Mariners put Jackson on waivers and he cleared revocable waivers, which means he can be traded. Jackson has not been the offensive player that the team was hoping for when they acquired him last year in the deal that sent David Price to the Tigers. This season Jackson is hitting .259 with seven home runs and he has played very solid defense even if his bat has not been as consistent.
Jackson is heading into free agency and the Mariners could look at making a move if they get a prospect back, but they also could wait and get a draft pick if he leaves in free agency. Jackson is making over $7 million for the season and he has about $2 million left and a deal could depend on how the money is split if a team doesn't want to take on his full amount left. The Mariners have been a mess this season and after coming in with playoff expectations, the team is way under .500 and the offense has been terrible.
According to SB Nation, Jackson could be a target for the Texas Rangers, as the team is trying to scratch its way into the playoffs. The team added Cole Hamels at the regular trade deadline and Texas could be a fit, as the site writes that the team doesn't have a "true" center fielder on the team right now. The Giants have been looking for some support after losing Hunter Pence to an injury and Jackson could be a potential option.
The Royals have played well despite losing Alex Gordon and they could take a look but may not want to give up much to get Jackson. Other teams in contention include the Pittsburgh Pirates, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Angels and the Orioles. The Pirates offense has not been great as of late, but Jackson has not been hitting, so that may not be the best move at this point.
Check here for more on the possibility of Jackson getting traded.