Chicago White Sox Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf thanked José Abreu and praised the former first baseman’s legacy with the team.
The 2020 American League Most Valuable Player signed a three-year deal with the Houston Astros Monday after spending his first nine seasons with the Sox.
“José Abreu deservedly belongs among the roster of White Sox franchise all-time greats,” Reinsdorf said in a statement Tuesday. “His determination and commitment to the game each and every day made him the consummate professional, always leading by example.”
The three-time All-Star ranks in the top 10 in several offensive categories on the team’s all-time list, including third with 243 home runs.
Abreu, through an interpreter, told reporters Tuesday in Houston that the Sox “made me an offer.”
“It was a really good offer, but I think we’ll leave it there,” Abreu said. “I think God knows why he does what he does and so we’re here.”
Terms of the deal with the Astros were not released, but it’s reportedly close to $60 million.
Abreu slashed .304/.378/.446 with 15 homers and 75 RBIs in 157 games during 2022.
“It was my fervent hope that José would never wear another uniform, as I told him many times throughout the years,” Reinsdorf said in the statement. “Unfortunately, hope is not always translated into reality. While we ended up in different places in the business side of the game, José and I always shared the same love of baseball. I am grateful to José for his friendship, and the impact he made for the White Sox franchise both on the field and in the community.
“I want to thank him for always representing the values of the White Sox organization and the great city of Chicago — strength, hard work, pride and tenacity. His legacy is written in the White Sox record books forever.”
