Blaster Closer Abreu Heading to Mexican League
Published on June 22, 2016 under American Association (AA)
Joplin Blasters News Release
Winston Abreu, the closer for the Joplin Blasters for the team's entire existence, is heading to Mexico. Abreu has been signed by the Mexico City Red Devils, a team he previously played for in 2012.
Abreu has played for four teams in the triple-A Mexican League, during two separate stints. He pitched 18 games as a closer for Oaxaca in 2005, and played for Mexico City, Ciudad del Carmen and Veracruz in 2012 and 2013.
Abreu's professional career dates back to 1994, when he was signed by the Atlanta Braves. He made his Major League debut in 2006 with the Baltimore Orioles, and pitched 38 times over three seasons with the Orioles, Nationals, Rays, and Indians. Over 21 seasons in pro baseball, the Dominican righthander has pitched in over 850 games with 81 victories and 140 saves.
In his Joplin career, Abreu saved 27 games- 23 in 2015 and four thus far this season. Last season, Abreu was the best relief pitcher in the American Association, recording a microscopic 0.77 ERA to go with the 23 saves. He was recognized as the Association's top closer with his selection to the All-Association team at the end of Joplin's inaugural season. This season, Abreu pitched eleven times, striking out 21 hitters with just two runs allowed. He walked only two hitters and recorded ten scoreless outings with a 1.50 ERA.
Although's Abreu's presence in the Blasters' bullpen will be missed, the organization wishes him continued success with the Red Devils, and with his further baseball endeavors.
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