The San Diego Padres reportedly want to bring in a former American League MVP.
MLB Network’s JP Morosi reported Saturday morning that the team views first baseman and 2020 AL MVP José Abreu as a “top priority” for them in free agency this offseason.
Morosi wrote, “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.”
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
Abreu had spent his entire career previously with the Chicago White Sox. He essentially replaced White Sox legend Paul Konerko at first base and did a great job. Abreu recorded 1,445 hits, 243 home runs, and hit .292 in 1,270 games with the White Sox. Abreu finished 10th all-time in White Sox history in hits, seventh in total bases, sixth in doubles, and third in home runs behind Konerko and Hall of Famer Frank Thomas.
Suffice it to say, Abreu is one of the most coveted first basemen on the market. That the Padres are interested shouldn’t surprise anyone. Padres first basemen finished 12th in the National League in slugging percentage (.378) after the 2022 season. They also had the fourth-fewest amount of home runs in the NL with just 26.
The Padres have shown to have a penchant to be willing to spend to improve the team.
