Yuli Gurriel Free Agency: Which teams would benefit the most from veteran MLB first baseman's signing?

After seven years in Major League Baseball, Yuli Gurriel may experience something he never had before: playing with a team that wasn't the Houston Astros. The 38-year-old first baseman remains in the free agent market, and while a return to the Astros cannot be ruled out, the two parties are yet to reach a new agreement.

Although the veteran may not have much time remaining in his MLB career, Yuli Gurriel has continued to remain productive as he ages. Last season with the Astros, the veteran hit .242 with eight home runs and 53 RBIs. While 2022 was a bit of a down year, he was electric in 2021, hitting .319 with 15 home runs and 81 RBIs.

"someone sign yuli gurriel before i cry and jump off a bridge" - @jjkgunshot

While he is up there in age, he should find himself a new contract before the beginning of the 2023 campaign. Some of the top candidates to sign the veteran first baseman include the Miami Marlins and the Houston Astros.

The Miami Marlins remain the top contenders for Yuli Gurriel

Even as Spring Training continues to roll along, the veteran first baseman and the Miami Marlins appear to be the best fit for one another. According to multiple reports, the Marlins reportedly offered the 38-year-old a one-year, $3 million deal, but pulled the offer after he waffled for a week.

"Marlins Back Off Pursuit Of Yuli Gurriel" - MLB Trade Rumors

Although the Marlins pulled their offer to Gurriel, the team is reportedly still interested in bringing him to camp as a non-roster invitee if he’s interested. For a Miami team that may struggle on offense this season, Yuli could find himself in a productive, prominent role if he were to sign with the team.

A return to the Houston Astros may be in order

While the signing of Jose Abreu seemingly shut down a reunion between the Houston Astros and Gurriel, the club has not ruled out a return. However, given the fact that some of the Astros' core is getting up in age, Gurriel could be a solid, proven backup plan in case of injury.

"@astros Yuli Gurriel is a great asset for the organization, his experience is valuable in and out the field for the rookies. Everybody at Houston loves La Piña. No matter the Abreu addition, Yuli will be a great insurance for our infield as well a good and proved hitter. Go Dana" - Jorge Hernandez

Houston manager Dusty Baker reportedly wants the veteran back with the Astros. The issue that may be blocking a reunion is Gurriel's desired $3 million salary.