Jones wasn't worried if Damon came to South Side

GLENDALE, Ariz. - As expected, free-agent outfielder Johnny Damon signed with the Detroit Tigers on Saturday, reportedly for one year at $8 million.

The White Sox expressed an interest, but decided to move on when Damon's decision lingered and his price rose.

Had they signed Damon, he likely would have been the Sox' primary designated hitter. That would have cut into Andruw Jones' playing time, not that it was a concern.

"That's none of my business," Jones said. "That's the team looking to get better or doing what they need to do to get where we need to get. I don't think about all of that stuff. I know I'm mentally ready and physically ready. Whatever plan they've got for me, I'm going to be ready to go for it."

Reporting day: White Sox pitchers and catchers have their first spring workout today, but most checked in at Camelback Ranch on Saturday morning.

"It looks good on paper," said new relief pitcher J.J. Putz. "Our starting pitching is going to be the key. If they can shorten the game for the bullpen, it's going to make us that much better. But we've got some quality arms down there."

Last season, Sox starters threw 907 innings, tying Tampa Bay for most in the American League.

Three expected regulars, second baseman Gordon Beckham and outfielders Juan Pierre and Andruw Jones, are already in camp. Position players aren't due in until Friday.

Good to go: Over eight months removed from surgery to remove bone chips from his elbow, relief pitcher J.J. Putz is not going to ease into his first training camp with the White Sox.

"I threw a bullpen on Friday and Tuesday, and I'm scheduled to throw Monday," Putz said. "I feel pretty much the same as normal."