>>Sox, Keppinger Agree To Deal

A person familiar with the contract tells The Associated Press that versatile infielder Jeff Keppinger has reached agreement with the Chicago White Sox on a $12 million, 3-year contract.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity Wednesday because there was no announcement by the team.

Keppinger hit .325 with a career-high nine home runs and 40 RBIs for Tampa Bay last season. The well-traveled 32-year-old is known for making contact and has more walks than strikeouts during his 8-year career with the Rays, San Francisco, Houston, Cincinnati, Kansas City and the Mets.

Keppinger is expected to play third base for the White Sox. Kevin Youkilis finished the season at that spot for Chicago last season, then became a free agent. The New York Yankees and Arizona also had been interested in Keppinger.

>>Cubs, Schierholtz Agree To Terms

A person familiar with the negotiations says outfielder Nate Schierholtz and the Chicago Cubs are closing in on a 1-year, $2.25 million contract.

The person, speaking Wednesday on the condition of anonymity because the deal had not been finalized, confirmed reports by several media outlets. Schierholtz can earn an additional $500,000 in performance bonuses.

"I'm so excited for the opportunity to play in Chicago," Schierholtz said in a text message to The Associated Press.

Schierholtz was traded from San Francisco to Philadelphia last season in the deal that sent Hunter Pence to the Giants at the July 31 non-waiver deadline. He batted .257 with six homers in 114 games overall this year and is a .270 career hitter in six seasons.

The Phillies declined to tender Schierholtz a 2013 contract offer before last Friday's deadline, making him a free agent.

AP Baseball Writer Janie McCauley in San Francisco contributed to this report.