Houston Astros release José Abreu with $30.8 million remaining on his contract

HOUSTON — The Houston Astros released José Abreu on Friday, cutting ties with the former AL MVP less than halfway through a three-year, $58.5 million contract.

Abreu, 37, who played hero in Game 4 of the ALCS against the Texas Rangers, hit .124 (14-for-113) with two home runs and seven RBIs this season, in which he spent time in the minors trying to fix his swing. The Astros still owe him $30.8 million on the deal he signed before last season.