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Emma: White Sox Slugger Jose Abreu Aims For Big Season

By Chris Emma--

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Hours before first pitch, stroll through the corridors of the White Sox clubhouse, head down the dugout to field level and you're bound to find Jose Abreu somewhere with a bat in hands.

Abreu could be swinging that bat in the cages, working his stance in the open dugout or simply grasping it while sitting outside his locker stall. Abreu and his bat seem to be inseparable. The White Sox slugger loves hitting.

The reputation of Abreu was well known for his new complement in the middle of the White Sox order, Todd Frazier. He's heard all about Abreu's work ethic and outstanding power.

"Abreu is a monster," Frazier said.

Two seasons into his major league career, Abreu has joined elite company. He's just the second player in league history to record 30 home runs and 100 RBIs in each of his first two big league campaigns.

Only Albert Pujols has accomplished the feat Abreu reached in his first two seasons. It's something for which he holds great pride.

"He's one of the greatest players in all of baseball," Abreu said. "To see my name along with his, it's great."

For a franchise not known for big-money contracts, Abreu's $68 million paid over six years, a White Sox record, opened some eyes. The team believed in his abilities and won the bidding war for the Cuban sensation.

Abreu came to Chicago in 2014 and made his mark fairly quickly. He hit 36 home runs and knocked in 107 RBIs in 145 games, splitting time between first base and the designated hitter's hole. He's a sensational bat with defensive deficiencies, but has cemented his place among baseball's best players.

Now, Abreu has Frazier next to him in the order, creating an impressive tandem in the power placement of the White Sox lineup. Rick Hahn, Robin Ventura and the baseball brass can hope it's his most productive season yet. Frazier sees himself challenging Abreu during their time together.

"Let him do his thing, let me do my thing, and we're going to be a really good team if that happens," Frazier said of Abreu.

But Abreu turned 29 years old on opening night of SoxFest. Just a pair of seasons into his career in Chicago, he's nearing the age where many in the majors begin a decline.

Abreu could be one to differ from that trend, at least purely from a hitting perspective. He puts in long hours in the cages and is viewed by teammates and peers as a workhorse. Abreu could be knocking homers out of U.S. Cellular Field for a long time.

"My goal is to work every day and to follow the same path of the last couple of years," Abreu said.

What Abreu achieved in his first two seasons with the White Sox was remarkable. On his 29th birthday, and SoxFest opening ceremonies, those who gathered inside the Hilton ballroom stood with a loud ovation. Abreu and ace Chris Sale have become the cornerstone for the White Sox organization -- but that hasn't been enough to reach the postseason.

A standard of success has been set by Abreu, but can he keep raising that bar? That's the farthest thing from his mind. He wants to keep swinging that bat and start winning more games.

"I don't like to think about numbers or stats," Abreu said. "I just like to have a good season and to help the White Sox win a championship."

Chris Emma covers the Chicago sports scene and more for CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 and like his Facebook page.

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