The Houston Astros have decided to part ways with Cuban first baseman José Abreu, releasing him from their Major League roster this Friday. This decision comes after a 15-month stint during which Abreu never performed at the level he once did with the Chicago White Sox.
The former American League MVP is currently hitting a mere .124 with two home runs and seven RBIs in 35 games this season—a performance that has been underwhelming for the Astros, as reported by ESPN. Abreu, now 37, failed to make the necessary adjustments to be considered an everyday player in Houston. On April 30th, he was demoted to the Florida Complex League Astros, where he played five games, and then two games with Triple-A Sugar Land before returning to Houston's lineup on May 27th. However, his performance did not significantly improve.
Since signing a three-year, $58.3 million contract with Houston in November 2022, Abreu has batted .217 with 20 home runs and 97 RBIs in 176 games. Despite these disappointing numbers, the Cuban slugger still has $19.5 million guaranteed this season and the same amount in 2025.
Abreu's Illustrious Career with the White Sox
Abreu was a star with the Chicago White Sox, where he earned the American League Rookie of the Year award in 2014 and was selected for the All-Star Game in 2014, 2018, and 2019. He also won the American League MVP award during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, batting an impressive .317 with 19 home runs and 60 RBIs in just 60 games.
Throughout 11 seasons, the Cuban standout has hit .283 in 1,446 games, with 263 home runs and 960 RBIs for both the White Sox (2014-22) and the Astros. His 960 RBIs since his debut in 2014 are the second-highest in MLB during that span, only trailing Nolan Arenado's 1,040.
Abreu's departure from the Astros marks the end of a challenging chapter for the Cuban slugger in Houston. What began with high expectations concluded in disappointment for both the player and the team. Now, the Astros are exploring new options to strengthen their lineup, while Abreu considers his next steps in his Major League career.
Key Questions About José Abreu's Release and Future
Given José Abreu's release from the Houston Astros, several questions arise concerning his career and the team's future moves. Here are some key points to consider:
Why did the Houston Astros release José Abreu?
The Houston Astros released José Abreu due to his underwhelming performance, hitting just .124 with two home runs and seven RBIs in 35 games this season.
What were José Abreu's achievements with the Chicago White Sox?
José Abreu was an American League Rookie of the Year in 2014, a three-time All-Star, and the American League MVP in 2020, among other achievements.
What are the financial implications of Abreu's release for the Astros?
Despite his release, José Abreu still has $19.5 million guaranteed this season and the same amount in 2025.
What are the Houston Astros' plans for filling the gap left by Abreu?
The Astros are currently exploring new options to strengthen their lineup following Abreu's departure.