“The frustration mounts, but ultimately he can turn things around” - Astros GM Dana Brown backs Jose Abreu despite challenges

Jose Abreu has been having a hard time ever since the start of the 2024 season. Abreu, who plays first base for the Houston Astros, has failed to play up to his usual standards this season.

He was moved down the lineup after recording a batting line of .068/.138/.085 in 65 plate appearances this season. Abreu had previously inked a three-year, $58.5 million contract with the Astros.

The Houston Astros are going 7-16 losing five of their last seven games and the Astros management has now decided to give the 37-year-old a break from the season.

The franchise general manager Dana Brown recently talked about Jose Abreu, as shared by The Athletic’s Chandler Rome on X/Twitter.

“Listen, there’s no way to sugarcoat this: he’s scuffling right now and I think he knows it. It’s wearing on him. I’m sure it’s wearing on our hitting coaches,” Brown said. “The frustration mounts but ultimately, hopefully, he can turn this thing around. I think we’re going to have to give him some time off, maybe platoon a little bit just to see if one of the other guys can get hot and give him some time off…”

“To start off the way he’s starting off right now, it’s frustrating for him. I guarantee you he’s frustrated. But he’s got to climb out of it or else we’re going to have to mix and match because it’s tough to keep going in that direction,” Dana Brown concluded her statement.

Abreu has had a tough start at the plate, going four for 59, all singles with 17 strikeouts and three errors at first base.

Jose Abreu could be a game-changer for the Astros if returns to his old form

Jose Abreu got a big contract from the Houston Astros due to his performance with the Chicago White Sox with whom he has spent nine years of his career.

During his time with the White Sox, he hit .292 with 243 homers and 831 RBI. Abreu is a three-time All-Star, a former MVP and a three-time Silver Slugger Award winner.

Last season with the Astros, Jose Abreu showed his prowess by hitting 18 home runs and bringing in 90 RBI.