Jose Abreu on move to Houston Astros: "I’m working with the champs"

With all of the big money moves this offseason, few are discussing Jose Abreu's signing with the Houston Astros. Less than a month after winning their second World Series, the Astros moved swiftly to get their man. With another star hitter in the lineup, Houston will enter 2023 as one of the favorites in the American League.

Abreu has consistently been one of the top hitters in the league. Since winning the Rookie of the Year award in 2014, he has continued to develop and sharpen his skillset. He is a three-time All-Star and led the AL in RBIs in 2019 and 2020. The right-handed slugger was rewarded for his hard work with an MVP award in 2020.

The move to Houston seems to suit Abreu. The Cuban-born star was recently asked about the Astros coaching staff and had a brief and concise response:

"It’s simple. I’m working with the champs"

Abreu was speaking through a translator, but his smile showed just how enthusiastic he was to be in Texas.

"Jose Abreu asked his impressions of the Astros coaching staff and how they do their jobs: “It’s simple. I’m working with the champs." - Mark Berman

In fairness, Abreu's excitement is understandable. The Chicago White Sox, where he spent his first nine MLB seasons, have not had a winning culture. Chicago has reached the postseason in only two of the last nine seasons. They never progressed past the AL Division Series.

The Houston Astros are building a dynasty. They are the team to beat in the AL. The club has reached the AL Championship Series for six consecutive seasons. They made the World Series on four of those occasions and won two championships.

2020 AL MVP Jose Abreu is excited about his move to the defending World Series champions

Jose Abreu runs out a one-run double against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field

The White Sox's poor output over the last decade has little to do with Abreu. He has put up big numbers over his time in Chicago. Last season, he had a .304/.378/.446 slash line and an impressive .824 OPS. He is ranked third in the lineup in home runs (15) and second in RBIs (75).

"Jose Abreu, who doesn’t have to be here until Tuesday, already getting some work in." - Mark Berman

Over his nine-year career, Abreu has finished with a batting average of .292 and has recorded 243 home runs.

The 36-year-old will add experience and depth to an already potent Astros offense. While many are focusing on the Aaron Judge and Carlos Correa deals, Abreu looks to be a shrewd piece of business. The Astros will likely remain the frontrunners for the AL on opening day.