MLB Rumors: Jose Abreu A “Top Priority” For NL Contender

It seems pretty certain that Jose Abreu's days in the Windy City are over. After a rock solid nine years with the Chicago White Sox, the 35-year-old first baseman is a free agent and looking for a new home. And according to one source, the San Diego Padres are making Abreu a "top priority."

Sources: Free agent José Abreu has spoken with #Padres officials this month. Abreu is a top priority for the Padres, who are seeking middle-of-the-order power and have an opening at the DH/1B spot. @MLBNetwork @MLB

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 19, 2022

MLB Insider Jon Morosi says that sources have told him that Abreu has spoken with the Padres this month and they are keen to sign him. The team has had difficulty filling first base adequately over the years, between the years-long disappointment of Eric Hosmer and the collection of assorted hands they tried there after they dealt him to the Boston Red Sox at the trade deadline. 

The Padres are also looking for a power bat in the middle of their lineup, and Abreu fits both needs. 

For most of his career with the White Sox, the three-time All-Star could be counted on for about 30 HR and 100 RBIs every year, while hitting close to .300. This past year did see a dropoff in run production, however, to just 15 HR and 75 RBIs. But he did continue to get on base at a tremendous .378 rate, while hitting .304 with an OPS of .824. 

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