Astros: Yuli Gurriel makes history winning his first Gold Glove

Yuli Gurriel becomes the oldest first baseman to ever win a Gold Glove.

The Houston Astros‘ first baseman, Yuli Gurriel, became the oldest first baseman at 37-years-old to win a Rawlings Gold Glove Award. The right-hander beat out Matt Olson and Jared Walsh, the two first baseman that made the American League All-Star Team over him.

Of Cuban-born major-league players, Gurriel becomes the ninth to receive a Gold Glove, as the righty had five Defensive Runs Saved for the 2021 season. While his first Gold Glove, Gurriel is now the fourth 37-year-old (or older) player to win the award since 2000.

Gurriel had five Defensive Runs Saved for the 2021 season. The right-hander won the batting title as well for the ’21 season, and The Athletic’s Keith Law still doesn’t believe Gurriel is a good first baseman.

While the batting title is based on batting average and many outlets don’t believe there is much value in the Gold Glove Award, Gurriel still took home two awards this season, in spite of of Law’s comments.

Gurriel, who once played shortstop in Cuba, came to the major leagues as a third baseman. He converted his game to first base, while beloved by his teammates for his work.

"“It was a long time coming for him. He makes every one of us better,” Carlos Correa said on ESPN. “He makes our job easier. I’m so happy and proud of him. Nobody deserves it more.”"

Myles Straw and Kyle Tucker did not win the Gold Glove award for center field and right field, while Tucker was up for the award for the second-straight year (left field in 2020).

Martin Maldonado and Zack Greinke also went home empty-handed once again for their respective positions, while former Astros’ hurler Dallas Keuchel took home the award for AL pitchers.