Jose Abreu Sends Classy Message to Yuli Gurriel After Signing With Astros

While Jose Abreu was surely celebrating after signing a new three-year deal with the defending World Series champion Houston Astros, he also realized that he might have taken away somebody else's job.

Abreu made sure to give a shoutout to former Astros first baseman Yuli Gurriel, who is currently a free agent and may not return to Houston now with Abreu taking his old position.

Jose Abreu Yuli Gurriel Message

Abreu said through an interpreter that he has "the utmost respect for Yuli," adding that he hopes Gurriel is able to stay in the majors.

Gurriel, 38, is coming off one of the worst seasons of his career and may have a hard time finding a job this winter. The Astros are open to bringing him back in a utility role, but it's unclear if Gurriel would accept reduced playing time as a potential backup for Abreu.

Both players hail from Cuba, so it's touching to see Abreu show respect for his fellow countryman. Gurriel may not be the player he used to be, but he's still a two-time World Series winner as well as a former Gold Glove winner and batting champion.

It remains to be seen where Gurriel will land for 2023, or if he'll retire after winning a second title with Houston in 2022. Regardless, it was kind of Abreu to go out of his way and acknowledge a former opponent that he clearly respected.