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The Braves have inked a minor league deal with first baseman Yuli Gurriel, as reported by journalist Francys Romero. Gurriel, who recently changed agencies

 

 

 

and is now represented by Gene Mato, joins Atlanta after his stint with the Marlins last season.

During his time with the Marlins, Gurriel showcased his prowess against Braves

pitching, boasting an impressive .323/.382/.581 slash line over 34 plate appearances. However, his overall

performance fell short of this mark, as he posted a lackluster .245/.304/.359 line with four home runs over 329 plate appearances.

 

This season marks the second consecutive year of below-par offensive output for the 39-year-old veteran. Including his pandemic-shortened 2020

campaign, Gurriel has struggled to replicate his past success, evident in his modest .658 OPS over 230 plate appearances during that period.

Despite his recent struggles, Gurriel has maintained an above-average hitting performance (108 wRC+) throughout his eight seasons in Major League Baseball.

His initial seven-year tenure with the Houston Astros saw him as a key member of the core that clinched World Series titles in 2017 and 2022.

In the 2021 season, Gurriel played a pivotal role in the Astros’ American League championship team, which

ultimately fell short against the Braves in the World Series. During that year, he showcased his offensive prowess by

tallying 15 home runs and an impressive .319/.383/.462 slash line, clinching the AL batting title and a Gold Glove award.

As Gurriel approaches his 40th birthday in June, his recent struggles raise questions about his future performance.

Despite his extensive experience in Cuba’s Serie Nacional and a brief stint in Japan, Gurriel’s current form remains uncertain.

The Braves’ decision to sign Gurriel to a minor league deal carries minimal risk, providing them with an opportunity to

assess his capabilities. However, even if he performs well in Triple-A, his chances of securing playing time in Atlanta seem

slim, given Matt Olson and Marcell Ozuna’s stronghold on the first base and designated hitter positions.

While Gurriel has previously demonstrated versatility by playing second and third base, the presence of

Ozzie Albies and Austin Riley in those positions limits his opportunities. Nonetheless, Gurriel may accept a

reduced role as a bench player if it means contributing to a contending team like the Braves.

Alternatively, Gurriel’s stint with Triple-A Gwinnett could serve as an audition for

potential opportunities with other teams, either through a trade or if he possesses an opt-out clause in his contract.

 

 

 

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