Yuli Gurriel has been a God send for the Marlins this season. Although it hasn’t been a typical season at the plate his intangibles and presence in the lockeroom has paid dividends for the fish. Two days ago Gurriel showed his worth in the ninth inning swatting a a single that put Miami ahead 2-1 against the Mets in a key tilt between the clubs with playoff implications.
Although the game was postponed by rain and Miami wasn’t the winner in the contest, this was another example of what value the native of Sancti Spíritus, Cuba has had for the Marlins this season. Gurriel in mostly a reserve role has only hit .250 and knocked in 28 runs this season, but his value as an example and a mentor for the young players has been immeasurable.
Miami has made the playoffs with their 7-3 win in Pittsburgh tonight and Gurriel’s contributions have been a key reason why the team will see the postseason. In a memorable season for Miami, it can be said Yuli Gurriel left his mark in the “Magic City.”
Evaluate your season with the Marlins?
This year everything was new for me. A new team, a different role. It was difficult because it was a first for me in this role, but collectively, I am very happy with the team’s performance. Many people did not consider us favorites to be fighting for the playoffs and until now we have a real chance of going.
You’ve been more of a mentor than a player, how hard has that been?
It was not easy, because in my entire career I had never been in this situation, and especially how I feel, because I feel that I can still play everyday. If I didn’t feel well, with a lot of discomfort or injuries, it would be different, but I have accepted this role, and for me, helping my teammates is something that I have always liked.”
Feeling this way, is there much more career left for Yuli Gurriel?
Physically I feel super good. I can not complain. There are no injury problems. It is inevitable to lose some things with age, but today I feel perfectly fine. Today we live differently. There are different ways of thinking. The teams give a lot of mind to sabermetricst It is becoming increasingly difficult for older players to stay in this league. Sometimes they don’t give the value to older players that they deserve and go more with the analytical part. There are practically no older players anymore.
If the Marlins offered you one more season, would you accept it?
I really haven’t felt bad here. I would have liked to play a little more, but I felt good. The treatment of the players, the treatment of the coaches, the desire to play, the desire to win, to go out on the field to fight, the truth is that I liked it. I didn’t think it would have been like that. I like the atmosphere here. The fans have behaved in a way that pleases me. I would have to say yes to the team if they wanted me back.
If in a week you play your last game in the majors, how would that make you feel?
Happy. I’ve had a pretty good career. I feel satisfied. I don’t regret anything I’ve done. I feel Satisfied with myself ,my family, with the fans ans those who have supported me.