Bo to Be DH Saturday at Sarasota

Bo Jackson, having already come further than many medical experts thought possible, will take the next step in his return from a disabling hip injury Saturday night when he begins a rehabilitation assignment with the Sarasota White Sox, Chicago’s Class-A affiliate in the Florida State League.

Jackson will serve as designated hitter Saturday and Sunday in Sarasota, then move to his hometown, Birmingham, Ala., Monday to become designated hitter for the double-A Barons.

Major league rosters can be expanded Sept. 1, but a player must be added before that to be eligible for the playoffs, though that rule has been waived at times for players coming off the disabled list or a rehabilitation assignment.

Jackson, who injured his left hip in the Raiders’ January playoff game against the Cincinnati Bengals, was released by the Kansas City Royals on recommendation of their medical staff March 19 and was signed by the White Sox on April 3. He has been in therapy with club trainer Herm Schneider since then, usually working out more than three hours a day.

“The more people who told him he couldn’t do it, the easier it made my job,” Schneider said. “Bo was bound and determined to prove them wrong.

“He’ll have a little limp the rest of his life and never be the fleet-footed Bo that he was before getting hurt, but he’s ready to give 100% of what he’s got, and he should improve.

“He’s been dealt a new hand and will have to play it.”

Schneider said the hope is that Jackson can eventually return to the outfield, but he will remain a designated hitter “for the time being.” He has also learned to slide on his right hip rather than on his left, which Schneider said will never be comparable to the right.

Jackson said he is excited about the prospect of facing live pitching for the first time since the 1990 season.

“You have to crawl before you can walk, and you have to walk before you can run and I’m just getting to the walk stage,” he said. “I’ve had a long, hard rehabilitation, and it’s not over. I’m looking forward to getting my (batting) eye back.”

Jackson said the muscle strength in his left leg and hip is only 50% but improving.

“The one thing that concerns me is my running,” he said. “I’m used to being the fastest person on the field. I have been used to shaking up the pitcher when I’m on first base. Right now my speed is one quarter to one half.”

Jackson said he has made no decision on resuming his football career.