Don’t look now but Yuli, Houston Astros saga comes full circle

SPORTSMAP ROUNDTABLE

With just a few days left in January, we still don't know where Yuli Gurriel will be playing this season. Reports indicated last week that the Astros offered Yuli a contract, but he was likely to take a more enticing deal with the Miami Marlins.

Yuli even started following the Marlins on social media, which had many fans thinking his days in an Astros uniform were over. But the deal with the Marlins seemingly fell apart, and reports are now indicating that the Astros and Twins might be where Yuli eventually lands.

Be sure to check out the video above as we address the latest reports and share our thoughts on what the future holds for the Astros and Yuli Gurriel.

If you enjoy the videos, subscribe on YouTube for our latest content.

Catch The Bench with John Granato and Lance Zierlein weekdays from 7-10 AM on ESPN 97.5 and 92.5.

Most Popular

Should the Astros sign Blake Snell? Composite Getty Image.

Astros pitcher Jose Urquidy made a lot of fans nervous on Friday when he exited his spring training start after just 43 pitches. Elbow pain reportedly was what cut his start short. Urquidy was then sent back to Houston for further evaluation.

Astros manager Joe Espada gave an injury update on Monday. According to MLB.com's Brian McTaggart, Urquidy is dealing with a forearm muscle strain and will likely begin the season on IL.

Houston had already been reported to have interest in signing free agent pitcher Blake Snell in recent days, according to The Athletic's Chandler Rome.

But USA Today's Bob Nightengale reported over the weekend the Astros now appear to be a “long-shot” to sign him. He's looking for a 2-year, $66 million deal and with a player option for year two.

A contract like this would put the Astros over the second tax-threshold. Not to mention he turned down the Padres qualifying offer as did closer Josh Hader. Which means the Astros would have to send two draft picks to San Diego if they sign Snell.

But if owner Jim Crane decides to pass on Snell, we're looking at a starting rotation of Framber Valdez, Cristian Javier, Hunter Brown, JP France, Ronel Blanco, and possibly Brandon Bielak if they opt for a 6-man rotation.

So what should the Astros do? Throw caution to the wind and sign Snell, or hope they get their guys back healthy sooner rather than later?

It's important to keep in perspective that the Yankees have several injuries to their rotation as well. Opening Day will be a matchup between Nestor Cortes and Framber Valdez. Not Gerrit Cole vs.Justin Verlander, like we once expected.

Be sure to watch the video above as we break down the rotation, all the Astros other options, and much more!

Catch Stone Cold 'Stros (an Astros podcast) every Monday on YouTube.

Most Popular

SportsMap Emails
Are Awesome

Listen Live

ESPN Houston 97.5 FM