*Photo from South Side Sox*
Looking for some more thump in the lineup, the Houston Astros got some. The Astros and 1B Jose Abreu have agreed to a 3 year, $58.5 million deal, according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today. The Astros have confirmed the news.
Once free agency opened, Abreu was of interest to many clubs despite being 36 when the 2023 season opens. He won the AL MVP award in 2020 and still is a good contact hitter, leading to a wide market for his services. Ultimately, 3 years at almost $20 million per year from Houston got it done.
Astros owner Jim Crane said of Abreu that "He’s been a consistent player for a number of years. You throw his bat in the lineup and his statistics, he’s going to put some pop in the lineup. That’s why I was attracted to him. Plus, he’s a first-rate guy. I got to spend some time with him Monday night. I know from that meeting and from all the other folks that know José well, he’ll be a great fit in the clubhouse."
Abreu's last season with the Chicago White Sox was a productive one in his age 35 season. He ended the season with a .304 average, .378 on base percentage, and .824 OPS, hitting 15 home runs with 75 RBI's in 157 games in 2022.
In his career, Abreu has spent all 9 major league seasons with the White Sox, making 3 all star game appearances. He has a career .292 batting average to go with a .354 on base percentage and .860 OPS, adding 863 RBI's with 243 home runs in 1,270 games. He has an additional .321 average with one homer and 5 RBI's in 7 career playoff games.
Last season, Abreu's .378 on base percentage was the second highest mark in his career, with his 62 walks being a career best. Abreu is a 3 time all star and 3 time silver slugger winner, and won the AL Rookie of the Year in 2014 thanks to a 36 homer, 107 RBI season.
Crane talked about the Astros outlook for 2023, saying that "We should have very high expectations next year. With adding José in the lineup, you can immediately feel that’s going to have some impact, and we’ll continue to fill maybe a few more holes. We expect to get back to the World Series. That’s our goal."
By signing in Houston, Abreu replaces the 38 year old Yuli Gurriel as the Astros starting first baseman as Houston looks to repeat as champions following their win this past season.
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