“Ask Any Major League GM”: Astros GM Refuses to Bench Jose Abreu Despite Dismal Performances
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USA Today via Reuters
Apr 8, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; Houston Astros first baseman José Abreu (79) hits a single against the Texas Rangers during the fifth inning at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jim Cowsert-USA TODAY Sports
The Houston Astros have not gotten off to the start that they envisioned yet. Injuries have destroyed their pitching staff, and their earlier potent offense is going through some tough times. Despite the early-season struggles, Astros GM Dana Brown remains optimistic. He points primarily to one factor: the potential turnaround of veteran slugger José Abreu.
Abreu, who has been a cornerstone of the Astros’ lineup, has been quite a disappointment so far. His batting average sits at a meager .078, which is far from where his usual production is. This offensive drought has left a significant hole in the heart of Houston’s batting order. But the team depends on him.
When will the Astros’ gamble on Jose Abreu result in a hot streak?
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It turns out that Brown is not packing just yet. He acknowledges Abreu’s struggles but expresses solid confidence in the first baseman’s capabilities to turn things around. He said, “We’re going to continue to figure out how to get [Abreu] some playing time to see if he can get hot. And if he gets hot, we’ll be happy.”
Q&A: Houston Astros general manager Dana Brown addresses slow start, José Abreu's struggles https://t.co/1kkMSBMVwC
— Chronicle Astros (@ChronAstros) April 20, 2024
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This statement underscores the chances Brown is taking. While he sticks with Abreu, hoping that a hot streak will ignite the Astros’ offense, the logic is clear: a healthy and productive Abreu is the key to Houston’s success. Clearly, his past performance speaks volumes. The 37-year-old is a 3x All Star and 3x Silver Slugger Award winner with a championship pedigree.
Brown further acknowledges that there’s a limit to his patience. He concedes, “Of course, we can’t continue to go with no production. At some point, we’ll have to make a decision.” His words reflect a clear expectation from the veteran.
Can Jose Abreu deliver, or will the Astros make a tough decision?
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The Houston Astros, who once soared high, are in a dire situation. The team needs to rise back up fast, and as per Dana Brown, a large part of the onus is on Jose Abreu. The message is clear: He needs to find his swing soon. The Astros are willing to give him the opportunity, but outputs need to come up fast.
At this point, the Astros’ fortunes seem to be tied to Abreu’s bat. And, if he can recapture his form, Houston’s offense could take off, catapulting them back into contention. Nevertheless, if Abreu’s struggles continue, the Astros might take a drastic step. But what is it going to be considering that even a single move could impact their entire season?
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