Chicago White Sox: Jose Abreu still wants to be part of future

Chicago White Sox first baseman Jose Abre sees the light at the end of the tunnel. He wants to be a part of that future.

After six seasons with the Chicago White Sox, Jose Abreu has been everything that they hoped for. The slugging first baseman from Cuba has been a rock in the middle of their lineup, hitting at least 20 homers every season while proving to be a dependable run producer. The problem is that the White Sox have been awful for much of his tenure, leaving the three time All Star without an appearance in the postseason.

Although the White Sox may not be contenders this season, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Understandably, Abreu wants to stick around to see those better days, a stance he reiterated after his walk off homer on Wednesday.

Abreu is certainly performing well enough for an extension in Chicago. Entering Thursday’s slate of action, he had produced a .272/.312/.517 batting line, belting 20 homers and driving in a league leading 63 runs. However, there are concerns, as 22.5% strikeout rate is the highest in his major league career. As Abreu ages, that rate may only increase.

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There is also the question of where Abreu would play for the White Sox if he was signed to a long term deal. Abreu is limited to playing first base, a position that may be the future home of top prospect Jake Burger, should Burger manage to remain healthy. Would the White Sox want to spend the money Abreu would require on a player that will end up as their designated hitter?

However, he is more than just a middle of the order bat. Abreu has become a leader in the clubhouse, especially amongst the Latin American players. He has taken on the role of a mentor, helping guide the likes of Yoan Moncada.

As the White Sox move forward with their youth movement, and the next wave of prospects begins to find their way to the majors, having that type of veteran presence could make a difference. With Abreu wanting to be a part of that future, it would make sense to keep him around as a leader and mentor.

Jose Abreu does not want to leave the Chicago White Sox. He could be a perfect fit moving forward, especially as they look for leaders for the young roster.