Yuli Gurriel serves as hero, inspiration for Astros’ multitude of Cuban prospects
Astros first baseman Yuli Gurriel takes a bow after homering off Framber Valdez during a spring training session of batting practice.WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — One February afternoon, amid a lockout trudging through its third month, Yuli Gurriel’s kindred spirit sat on a folding chair beneath a tent. Most Americans cannot comprehend Gurriel’s gravitas in Cuba. One glimpse of Roilan Machandy offered an apt appreciation.
Robaina stopped buttoning his jersey after turning 9 years old and realizing his idol is a rebel. Cuban baseball has strict rules governing its uniforms. Umpires are trained to make sure players abide by them. Gurriel did not comply. The Astros are the first team since the 1960s to employ at least 20 Cuban players, according to Frances Romero, an author and longtime baseball reporter who covers Cuban major leaguers. Gurriel, Yordan Alvarez and Aledmys Díaz are contributors on a major league club contending for a pennant. Touted outfield prospect Pedro León, ranked anywhere from second to fourth in their system, is Cuban. Houston’s latest international signing class contained 15 players. Three are Cuban.
Gonzalez and Ocampo scouted Alvarez heavily in the Dominican Republic, where a majority of Cuban defectors land once establishing residency elsewhere. The Los Angeles Dodgers eventually signed Alvarez. On the advice of Gonzalez and Ocampo, the Astros acquired him in 2016 for reliever Josh Fields.
Indonesia Berita Terbaru, Indonesia Berita utama
Similar News:Anda juga dapat membaca berita serupa dengan ini yang kami kumpulkan dari sumber berita lain.
Astros reassign top prospect Korey Lee to minor league campThe Space Cowboys are scheduled to open their season on Tuesday night in Sacramento...
Baca lebih lajut »
NFL draft: Which sliding prospects should Eagles target? Which ones should they pass on?The yearly tradition of once-coveted NFL draft prospects falling from grace is in full force with less than four weeks remaining until the first night of the draft.
Baca lebih lajut »
Astros' Taylor Jones to miss start of Triple-A season with back injuryThe Astros did not disclose the specificity of his injury.
Baca lebih lajut »
Pilot Nia Gilliam-Wordlaw aims to inspire next generation of female pilots of color through 'Sisters of the Skies'During Women's History Month, we're bringing you stories of inspiring women.
Baca lebih lajut »
8 Native American Scientists You Should KnowFrom the NASA astronaut to the accomplished archaeologist, these Indigenous innovators led inspiring lives. Find out more about these 8 Native American scientists everyone should know.
Baca lebih lajut »
The 25 Best Songs About FamilyFrom country to rap, check out these tracks inspired by parents, siblings, kids, grandparents and beyond.
Baca lebih lajut »