The Houston Astros have released 2020 American League MVP First Baseman Jose Abreu, MLB Network’s Jon Morosi reported Friday.
Abreu signed a three-year $58.5 million contract with Houston prior to the 2023 season following a prolific nine-year career with the Chicago White Sox. Abreu collected several awards in addition to the MVP while in Chicago, including Rookie of the Year, three All-Star appearances and three Silver Sluggers.
News today: José Abreu released by Astros. @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) June 14, 2024
In his time with the White Sox, Abreu smashed nearly 250 Home Runs, had a batting average of .292 and an On Base Plus Slugging Plus (OPS+) of 135 (35% above league average). He also amassed 28.3 Wins Above Replacement (WAR).
Following his transition to Houston, Abreu began to struggle. His OPS+ fell to 78 in 2023 (22% below league average) and amassed -0.5 WAR. It got even worse as the 2024 season began. In just 35 games Abreu accrued -1.5 WAR and a 4 OPS+ (96% below league average). (RELATED: Nationals’ Lane Thomas Gets Ejected For … Looking At The Umpire?)
The Astros will owe Abreu the remaining $30 million on his contract despite the release, as was first reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
The Houston Astros released first baseman José Abreu. He is owed more than $30 million on the free agent deal he signed last year.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) June 14, 2024
The Astros will look to turn their season around by replacing Abreu. They are currently 31-38 and sit third in the American League West, nine games behind the first-place Seattle Mariners. They are also six games behind the Minnesota Twins for the final Wild Card spot.
