Havana Cuba. — The recent signing of the first baseman José Dariel “Pito” Abreu with the Houston Astros has generated speculation about the departure of Yuli Gurriel, also Cuban, who at 38 years old and with a commendable performance since his arrival in the Major Leagues in 2016, is available to potentially interested teams.
Yuli has left the Astros with two World Series rings and several awards, including being the American League Batting Champion (2021) and having established a new record for a Cuban in the Major Leagues after reaching 26 hits in the 2022 fall classic, before the Phillies.
Although he had an impressive streak of 39 strikeoutless at-bats in the postseason, his poor performance this season may have played a role in the decision by Astros officials to bolster the position with José Dariel Abreu.
Although Yuli Gurriel’s age could be one of the elements against him to achieve a new contract, the first baseman remains in shape and seems to have the ammunition to continue reaping success at the highest level of professional baseball.
According to the specialized portal Full Swing, three teams could be interested in Gurriel for next season: the Tampa Bay Rays, the Miami Marlins and the Detroit Tigers. In the first case, the Cuban’s entry would be motivated by his expertise as a starter, but also by his offensive quality, something that right now represents a handicap for Tampa Bay.
The Marlins, for their part, could consider Yuli to replace José Dariel Abreu, for whom they quietly bid until the Astros managed to add him to their roster. The presence of Gurriel would contribute to raising the numbers to the offensive of the team Miami, who had one of his worst seasons in the batting box.
For the Detroit Tigers, the signing of Yuliesky could only bring benefits. The ninth needs to improve its offense and hire an experienced player to alternate work at first base with young Spencer Torkelson, who felt enormous pressure last season. In response to such requirements, Yuli would be a formidable option, especially if the Cuban manages to maintain his form.
OPINION ARTICLE
The opinions expressed in this article are the sole responsibility of the person who issues them and do not necessarily represent the opinion of CubaNet.
Receive information from CubaNet on your cell phone through WhatsApp. Send us a message with the word “CUBA” on the phone +525545038831, You can also subscribe to our electronic newsletter by giving click here.
