#sam travis

The White Sox are in trade discussions for Jose Abreu. You heard that correctly. Per Jon Heyman, four teams have inquired about the slugger, including the Red Sox, Astros, and Brewers. I know Hahn said he’s open to discussions on Abreu, but like I said before, you cannot replace his clubhouse presence and where he is as a mentor, especially for young, Hispanic players. Let’s break down what we’d need, if Hahn was to go the route of trading Abreu.

Red Sox

I do not understand the Red Sox. I heard a rumor (may be false) that the Sox would want Jackie Bradley, Jr. in exchange. Yes, JBJ is a great fielder, but he hasn’t really gone anywhere but down since his massive hitting streak in 2016. Last year, he only slashed .245/.323/.402, compared to Abreu’s 2017 slash line of .304/.354/.552. JBJ is 27. Abreu is 30, so it’s not like you’d be acquiring youth. Since the Chris Sale trade, the Red Sox have a more barren farm system. It isn’t nearly as fruitful as last year, and to trade for a slugger like Abreu, you would need probably Sam Travis or Michael Chavis added into a package for Abreu.

Astros

This one makes a little more sense. I could see a package which includes, perhaps Francis Martes or David Paulino paired with Derek Fisher or Kyle Tucker. One of those last two will take over some outfield duties next season, but I don’t see that as an outrageous request for the average 4.6 WAR player that Abreu is.

Brewers

The Brewers have a sneaky good farm. I would not like Corey Ray included in a package for Abreu, based on his recent struggles at the plate, but something centered around Luis Ortiz and Brandon Woodruff would be a start. I don’t really love this pairing with the Sox because these two are pitchers, and I don’t see the Brewers parting with Lewis Brinson, their prized prospect, who also happens to be an outfielder.