Yuli Gurriel, a former Gold Glove winner for the Astros, hit 94 home runs during his seven seasons with the team, including 51 at Minute Maid Park. After spending most of the 2024 season in Triple-A, he joined the Royals late in the year, contributing to their Wild Card push with a .241 average and three extra-base hits in 18 games. Now 40, Gurriel could be a valuable addition for Houston, potentially addressing their first base issues if he decides to continue playing in 2025.

Yuli Gurriel faced a critical moment in Game 3, coming to the plate with the tying run on third base in the eighth inning. Weaver managed to retire him with a fly ball, preventing Bobby Witt Jr. from scoring and preserving the Yankees' lead. This highlighted Gurriel's role in a high-pressure situation, underscoring the stakes of postseason baseball.

Yuli Gurriel, the veteran first baseman for the Royals, has played more games at the big league level than any other first baseman still in the playoffs. Despite his extensive experience, he made a critical error on a routine play during Game 3 of the ALDS against the Yankees, allowing Juan Soto to reach safely. This mistake drew sharp criticism from TBS announcer Bob Costas, who highlighted the simplicity of the play. Gurriel has had a mixed postseason performance, going 3-for-10 in the ALDS after struggling in the Wild Card Series. A two-time World Series champion with the Astros, he has a strong defensive track record, having previously made only four errors in 690 postseason chances. At 40 years old, Gurriel aims to help the Royals extend their playoff run in the upcoming game.

Yuli Gurriel had a chance to tie the game for the Royals in the eighth inning but flew out to end the threat after Bobby Witt Jr. and Salvador Perez reached base with two outs. His at-bat highlighted the Royals' struggle to capitalize on scoring opportunities against the Yankees' bullpen.

Yuli Gurriel had a key moment in the game, flying out to end a threat in the eighth inning after the Royals had attempted to rally. His performance was part of the Royals' effort to respond after Stanton's go-ahead homer.