Former AL MVP Jose Abreu Released by Houston Astros in Midway Through Contract

The Houston Astros have made the decision to release first baseman Jose Abreu from their Major League roster, marking the end of his tenure with the team less than halfway through his three-year, $58.5 million contract.

Abreu, a former American League MVP, struggled at the plate during his time with the Astros, hitting .217 with 20 home runs and a .625 OPS over 176 games.

Originally signed by the Chicago White Sox after defecting from Cuba, Abreu enjoyed a decorated career with the team, earning three All-Star selections, American League Rookie of the Year honors, and an AL MVP award in 2020.

Despite his success with the White Sox, Abreu’s performance dipped significantly after joining the Astros in free agency in November 2022, with his OPS falling to .680 in 2023 and a mere .361 mark in 2024.

In an effort to revitalize his season, Abreu agreed to be optioned to the Minor Leagues in May to work on his swing. However, even with adjustments made, his struggles at the plate persisted, leading to his release from the Astros.

The Astros, finding themselves slipping in the AL West standings, made the difficult decision to part ways with the veteran first baseman, who still had over half of his contract remaining to be paid out.

As Abreu hits free agency once again, teams will have the opportunity to sign him for a prorated share of the major league minimum salary, with the Astros shouldering the remainder of his contract obligations.