Jose Abreu has been the face of the White Sox since 2014. The White Sox first baseman is as reliable as they come. In 2020, he became one of just four players in White Sox history to be named American League MVP.
Abreu is also one of just three players in MLB history to begin his career with four or more consecutive seasons of 100 plus RBIs and 25 plus home runs. He has been named an All-Star and Silver Slugger three times and has had six 100-plus RBI seasons.
This season has been no different. After a slow start, Abreu is now slashing .308/.384/.509. His 147 hits lead the American League, while his .306 batting average ranks third.
He also leads the White Sox in games played (125), home runs, runs scored (69), OBP (.383), OPS (.840), walks (54), and doubles (29). This past month, Abreu has been one of the few bright spots in the lineup. In his last 30 games, Abreu is hitting .330 with 13 RBIs.
However, he hasn’t been satisfied with his production on the field. He was asked why during an interview with Scott Merkin before Saturday’s game and responded by saying:
“This probably hasn’t been my best season, but I still believe in the things I can do and how I can perform. I know I can perform at a really high level.”
He continued with his assessment by adding, “my stats, especially my RBIs and homers, aren’t where I want them to be. And I think I could have done more for this team.”
While it is true that Abreu’s RBIs are down from his absurd totals in previous seasons, there is not much more Abreu can do for this team that he hasn’t already. He has tried to lead by example all season. He plays injured, hustles, and still produces at a high level despite being the oldest position player on the roster.
His aggressive base running on August 13th against the Tigers is a perfect example of this. With one out in the seventh inning, he reached base with a single. He then tagged up on a ball hit from center field and beat out a throw from Riley Green to will the tying run into scoring position. Andrew Vaughn drove him in with a single in what turned out to be the winning run.
It was a small display of effort that stood out on a team that has been called out for its lack of hustle at times. Despite the blunt candor, Abreu has nothing to be ashamed of this season. The rest of the roster is another story.
terriffic athlete, all star first baseman, and a wonderful human being. i hope that Jerry doesnt screw him on his upcoming contract(jpse had given more than we even dreamt)
Jerry dont screw him like u did Scottie Pippen!