Abreu grateful for praise, taking success in stride

CLEVELAND -- With his Major League rookie records of 10 homers and 32 RBIs through April, Jose Abreu has the chance to be named AL Rookie of the Month and Player of the Month. He would join former teammate Yasiel Puig (June '13) , the only player to be named Player of the Month in his first month in the Majors.

But winning such an honor was not a target for Abreu when he arrived with the White Sox.

"Overall, and this first month included, I never thought of any numbers or any goals," said Abreu through interpreter and White Sox director of public relations Lou Hernandez. "Just doing exactly what the team needs me to do for the team to be successful.

"The success that I've had, I try to take it in stride. I haven't put goals on myself."

Abreu does appreciate the early notice he has received across the country, showing his hard work and set routine have paid off.

"That's beautiful," Abreu said. "All I can say is be thankful to the people who have said those things about me. It really is a source of pride to hear so many people admire some of the things I've done. I also just want to focus on helping the team win and be focused on the job at hand."