Jose Abreu wants to sing 'The Star-Spangled Banner' before a White Sox game

Jose Abreu wants to sing American National Anthem

By Mike Bertha

September 15, 2014

Cuban slugger Jose Abreu has been nothing short of phenomenal for the White Sox in his rookie season. The 27-year-old first baseman is fourth in the Majors in home runs, third in batting average and tied for fourth in RBIs while well on his way to an American League Rookie of the Year award.

But his contributions to his new team and his new home don't stop there. Abreu is working on his English and has set a goal for himself ... to sing "The Star-Spangled Banner" before a White Sox game at U.S. Cellular Field.

Jose Abreu told me his goal is to master the English language and sing the National anthem before a White Sox game.
- Bruce Levine (@MLBBruceLevine) September 14, 2014

He recently told The Chicago Sun-Times that he was reduced to tears upon hearing the anthem played at the All-Star Game at Target Field in Minneapolis back in July:

Almost seven weeks later, Abreu hasn't backed off from his desire to do what would be a can't-miss performance by the Cuban-born budding superstar. Professional vocalists say the anthem, a trap for infamous flubs, is one of the toughest to sing because of its range and tricky lyrics. And Abreu is far from a pro. He has never sung before an audience.

"No, I don't sing, but I have a routine in the shower,'' he said with a big smile Sunday.

IF YOU'RE NOT CROSSING YOUR FINGERS RIGHT NOW, YOU SHOULD BE.

While Abreu's certainly on-point about the significance and beauty of "The Star-Spangled Banner," he might have been caught up in all of the wonderful hoopla that was the 200th anniversary celebration commemorating the Battle of Baltimore and Francis Scott Key's patriotic anthem. The O's even wore special uniforms to mark the occasion.

[h/t HBT]