MLB Rumors: Joey Votto adds pressure to Reds, Yankees asset fails, Astros Abreu replacement

MLB Rumors. Did Astros sign a Jose Abreu replacement?

It’s no secret that Houston is unhappy with their production at first base. Heck, the Astros assumed this wouldn’t be an issue when they signed Jose Abreu this offseason. The former White Sox star has a great 2022, and signed with Houston on a multiyear deal. It seemed like a match made on heaven as Abreu chases a ring this late in his career.

So, what’s the issue? Well, Abreu hasn’t lived up to his end of the bargain. The 36-year-old is slashing just .225/.279/.308 on the year. He hasn’t been good enough, which is why it’s not absurd to wonder if the Astros will try to acquire some first base help at the deadline, especially if the likes of Paul Goldschmidt are actually available. I wrote about Abreu’s struggles just a few days ago:

"“Per Jim Bowden of The Athletic, it’s not absurd to think that the Astros could move off of Abreu as soon as the trade deadline, if they can. “It looks like age and decline have caught up with Abreu, 36. If the Astros can get out from under some of the $39 million they’ll owe him in 2024 and 2025, they will.” Bowden went on to comment on how Andrew Vaughn, another trade candidate, has all but replaced Abreu’s production with the White Sox. Houston will want to buy, as well, in their quest for a repeat World Series appearance. But it won’t come easily.”"

Houston signed Jon Singleton this weekend. While Singleton isn’t exactly the ideal replacement for Abreu, it is another signal that Houston is open for business at the first base position, as MLB Trade Rumors suggests:

"“If Singleton gets a look and doesn’t pan out, the Astros could then explore adding a more proven first-base capable player at the trade deadline.  GM Dana Brown has spoken about how the team would like to add a left-handed hitting multi-positional player, though Singleton doesn’t fit the mold as a first base-only type.”"

Houston could force Abreu to platoon if his struggles continue, at least for the rest of this season. The Astros plan on contending for a World Series repeat. So far, it hasn’t gone according to plan.

Something has to change, and it will, barring anything unforeseen.