(670 The Score) The reigning American League MVP has high expectations for a pair of teammates.
White Sox first baseman Jose Abreu believes 24-years center fielder Luis Robert and 24-year-old left fielder Eloy Jimenez will each win an MVP award in their careers, just as Abreu did himself in 2020. Abreu made the proclamation during an interview with reporters in the White Sox dugout Wednesday, with Robert and Jimenez in the background trying to distract him.
"They are just big kids always messing around with me," Abreu said. "That is why they are here. They know they can have fun playing here. I am happy because I know I have two future MVPs with me. They are going to be MVPs – both Luis and Eloy."
Click here to get your White Sox tickets
The 34-year-old Abreu is the unquestioned leader of the White Sox, so his words carry weight. He also has displayed the work ethic and dedication it takes to ascend to an MVP level, setting the example it will take for Robert and Jimenez to reach their great potential.
"Everyone on this team is trying to improve and find ways to get better," Abreu said of his message to the team. "Having my older boy Eloy here with me is a blessing and makes things easier. With Luis, we all just laugh at all of his shenanigans that he does.
"At the end of the day, you must recognize the great work and effort the front office has made to put this team together. I am fortunate to be with this team. I am glad to be with this young talented group. I can lead them and show them how things are done, but I am grateful to have that opportunity."
Abreu has been thrilled to see Robert get back in the mix after the latter missed more than three months with a serious hip injury. Robert returned on Aug. 9 and has been on a tear since. Robert is hitting .337 with a .919 OPS for the season while playing spectacular defense as well.
"It is very nice to watch the improvements he has made since last season," Abreu said. "You see a big difference from last year to this year. That shows you how good he is and how good he can be. He will continue to improve and get better."
Entering their off day Thursday, the White Sox hold a 10-game lead in the AL Central. While they have the division under control, it's no time to let up, Abreu said.
"We need to keep winning and prepare for the postseason," Abreu said. "Tony (La Russa) is a Hall of Fame manager. He earned that. He will know how to guide the team into the postseason. The advice for us is to just follow him. He has told us to play every day like it's a playoff game."
Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.
