Astros in Fantasy: Fantasy Players of the Week- Week 21

2 of 3

Week 21 Hitter:

Yulieski Gurriel (Owned in 17.3% of ESPN Fantasy leagues)

Aug 21, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Houston Astros designated hitter Yulieski Gurriel (10) slides into third base in the fourth inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports /

From the moment he stepped into the batter’s box for the Astros at Camden Yards on Sunday afternoon, people knew that this was not just another rookie.

In his first game as a member of the Astros, Gurriel put up a veteran like stat line. In his three appearances, he had a hit and walked once. His first hit, a single, was rifled up the middle for a solid base hit.

However, Gurriel was forced to leave the game in the eighth inning because of tightness in his right hamstring. The injury, although not to be considered serious, may keep him out of the opener in Pittsburgh tonight.

Nonetheless, the 32-year-old Cuban sensation is in a prime spot to provide some offense for this team. In 925 games overseas, Gurriel hit .335 with a .997 career OPS. He also hit 250 home runs in his 15 seasons.

With Bregman having earned the hot corner spot with tremendous defensive play, Gurriel is primarily going to get playing time as the designated hitter for the rest of the 2016 season. Even if his role outside of 2017 Is unclear, Gurriel is a veteran hitter that will perform well at the major league level and for fantasy owners everywhere.

Next: Week 21 Pitcher

Home/Astros News