When Houston Astros first baseman Jose Abreu blasted a lifestyle magazine for false narrative of his defection

Houston Astros first baseman Jose Abreu's hitting prowess is well known. In 2015, some information was revealed about his harrowing journey from Cuba in 2013. Cuban-born Abreu slammed a lifestyle magazine for misrepresenting his defection story.

As reported by ESPN, Abreu said through team interpreter Billy Russo:

"I agreed to the interview [with Chicago Magazine]; I don't know what they have written. But I don't feel very comfortable talking about my journey from Cuba to the United States."

Jose Abreu left Cuba in August 2013 to enter the MLB free agent market, just like any other Cuban-born athlete who wanted to play baseball in the United States.

"79 days until opening day. First reports of José Abreu's defection from Cuba surfaced Aug. 11, 2013. He signed with the #WhiteSox Oct. 29th -- 79 days later." - Christopher Kamka

Several players who left Cuba had to go through hardships to do so.

"Yeah, I don't want to discuss it," Abreu said. "It's very sensitive, and I don't want to remember that part."

Before leaving his homeland, José Abreu participated in the Cuban National Series for Cienfuegos.

Here's the full ESPN article.

Jose Abreu currently plays with the Houston Astros

Abreu spent nine seasons playing for the Chicago White Sox before agreeing to a three-year, $58.5 million deal with the Astros in November 2022.

"BREAKING: Jose Abreu is reportedly signing with the Houston Astros Thanks for everything MVPito" - Barstool Chicago

Abreu has predominantly played first base, but in somewhat fewer than 20% of the games he has currently played, he has also stepped in as a designated hitter.

Minnesota Twins v Chicago White Sox

Abreu was awarded the Silver Slugger Award in 2014, 2018 and 2020, as well as the American League Most Valuable Player Award in 2020. He also earned the American League Rookie of the Year Award in 2014.

Abreu is presently taking it all in while participating in Spring Training at the Ballpark of the Palm Beaches. March 30 is the Opening Day for MLB 2023. MLB fans are ecstatic with the return of the baseball season.