According to Bob Nightengale, first baseman Jose Abreu has signed with the Houston Astros. Abreu has signed a three-year deal with the defending champions.
Abreu’s Resume
Throughout his nine seasons with the Chicago White Sox, Abreu was a three-time All-Star, three-time Silver Slugger, 2014 AL Rookie of the Year, and 2020 AL MVP. Abreu was one of the few bright spots for an underwhelming Chicago White Sox in 2022. In 157 games with the White Sox, Abreu was .304/.378/.446 with 15 home runs and 75 RBI. Last season, Abreu was second in the American League in hits with 183. He has also produced over 100 RBI six times in his career.
Abreu debuted for the Chicago White Sox in 2014 and has been one of the few mainstays of the organization. He came up and exceeded expectations. As the team went through a rebuild, Abreu was one of the few bright spots in the organization. He helped lead the White Sox to playoff births in 2020 and 2021 (their first playoff appearances since 2008).
What Does He Bring to the Astros?
With this signing, Houston solidifies the first base position void left by free agent Yuli Gurriel. Abreu’s right-handed bat will add him to the likes of Alex Bregman, Jeremy Pena, and Jose Altuve. He’s a heart-of-the-order hitter with power and the ability to drive in runs. Arguably one of the best parts of Jose Abreu is his ability to stay healthy. In most seasons he has played over 150 games, only having one season where he missed significant time.
Entering his 36-year-old season, he will provide a power bat for a team with a deep lineup. Additionally, the Astros are trying to become the first team to win back-to-back titles since the 99-00 Yankees. Houston is hoping that Abreu will put them over the edge in 2023.
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Players Mentioned:
Yuli Gurriel, Alex Bregman, Jeremy Pena, Jose Altuve, Jose Abreu
