This shouldn’t really come as a surprise to anyone who follows the White Sox, but Jose Abreu has officially been named the starting first baseman for the American League. Even with his current slump, he is still far and away the best first baseman in the A.L. So far he is slashing .259/.316/.450. All of those would actually be career lows, so it is a little ironic to see him get the start when he has been even better in years past. Even with career lows thus far, he still has 27 doubles, 50 RBI, and 12 home runs. Being asked to carry the offensive load on a young, rebuilding team is a tough assignment for any player, but Abreu has handled it perfectly and without any complaints.
Jose Abreu will start at 1st base for the American League in the 2018 MLB All-Star game. It will be his 2nd career All-Star appearance and 1st career start. pic.twitter.com/GWMKnymlbu
— NBC Sports Chicago (@NBCSChicago) July 8, 2018
The official title of All-Star starting first baseman might put a little more trade value on him, but I have made my thoughts known that the White Sox would be foolish to trade such a great player and fantastic clubhouse presence. They would have to be blown away by any offer for him.
For now, White Sox fans can take pride in knowing they will be represented in the All-Star game. If all goes according to plan, that should be a regularity for the next 8-10 years.
