World Series or bust: Astros just got even scarier by signing former AL MVP

The Houston Astros signed former Chicago White Sox star Jose Abreu, per Bob Nightengale of USA Today.

The grind never stops for the Houston Astros.

Less than a month after winning the World Series, one could argue that the Astros got even better on Monday afternoon. Houston signed Jose Abreu, previously of the Chicago White Sox, to replace Yuli Gurriel. Abreu famously won the AL MVP in 2020, and was a candidate for the award several times previously.

While Houston had rumored interest in Abreu for quite some time, the Astros had to fight it out with the Miami Marlins and Tampa Bay Rays, as the Cuban slugger wanted to play closer to home. In the end, the chance to play for a championship-level squad won out.

What Astros signing Jose Abreu means for American League

FanSided’s Eric Treuden outlined what Abreu brings to any team at this stage of his career in an article earlier on Monday:

"“Abreu certainly did his part in 2022 to secure what could be a multi-year deal in free agency. In 157 games, the premier slugger hit 15 home runs (a low number by his standards) but still managed a .304 batting average and an OPS+ of 133.In each of the past two seasons, Abreu has managed a walk rate over 9%, easily the best of his career. This past season, he struck out in just 16% of his plate appearances, showing that even if his power numbers dipped a bit, he has still proven to be one of the game’s most valuable first basemen.”"

The 2022 MLB offseason has thus far been an arms race between the likes of Houston and Seattle. The Astros, who won the World Series last season, look to keep control of the AL West. Meanwhile, Seattle acquired Teoscar Hernandez via trade from the Toronto Blue Jays earlier this month.

With Yuli Gurriel hitting free agency, Houston needed an upgrade at first base. They got one in Abreu, and then some.