Jose Abreu signed with the Chicago White Sox in 2014.
He was a big part of the franchise rebuild, which took several years before they were competitive again.
Of course, just as he was part of the hard, losing years, he enjoyed the winning times in 2020 and 2021.
They made the playoffs in 2020 for the first time since 2008.
On both occasions, however, the White Sox were sent home early, but it didn’t matter: fans still got to enjoy a highly competitive squad with Abreu as one of the veteran leaders.
He had reached franchise legend status upon reaching free agency this year.
People were highly disappointed to learn, on Monday, that he chose the Houston Astros as his next destination.
The White Sox made him a touching video and posted it on Twitter with a heartfelt message.
“For your toughness and love. For your heart and hustle. For everything on and off the field. Thank you, José Abreu,” they tweeted.
For your toughness and love.
For your heart and hustle.
For everything on and off the field.Thank you, José Abreu. pic.twitter.com/E7fO3glZmM
— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) November 29, 2022
Abreu Will Be Missed On The South Side Of Chicago
A big part of the White Sox’s recent history just went to Houston.
A true competitor, an RBI machine, and an underrated source of power and consistency.
In his nine seasons with the club, the first baseman hit 243 home runs and drove in 863 runs.
He also hit .292 and had a .860 OPS, all elite numbers in the American League.
The Astros are getting a top bat capable of hitting 35 doubles, 20 home runs, and a .300 average in 2023 and beyond.
Chicago, on the other hand, is not just losing a top hitter: they will be without one of their spiritual leaders and fan favorite.
It’s a tough pill to swallow for fans.
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