White Sox claim outfielder Rios off waivers

Toronto Blue Jays fielder Alex Rios waits to take the field against the Baltimore Orioles during the second inning of their MLB American League baseball game in Toronto, August 9, 2009. The Chicago White Sox acquired Rios off waivers on Monday, bolstering their outfield with the two-time All-Star who has spent his entire career with the Jays.

CHICAGO (Reuters) - The Chicago White Sox acquired Alex Rios off waivers on Monday, bolstering their outfield with the two-time All-Star who has spent his entire career with the Toronto Blue Jays.

The White Sox will take on the remainder of Rios' lucrative contract that runs through 2014, and includes a $13.5 million club option for 2015.

The 28-year-old Rios has 14 home runs and 62 RBIs this season but is batting just .264, down from his average over the past few seasons.

This is the second recent transaction for Chicago, who acquired pitcher Jake Peavy in a trade with San Diego on July 31.

"We're okay with the cash because of the way we've structured our payroll over the year," said White Sox general manager Ken Williams.

"People are getting excited about the possibility," he said. "I think they can see this team being a dangerous team."

The White Sox (57-56) are three games out of first place in the American League Central division and are hoping to make a run to the post-season.

(Writing by Jahmal Corner in Los Angeles; Editing by N.Ananthanarayanan)