World Series 2017: Astros' Yuli Gurriel To Be Suspended In 2018

Houston Astros first baseman Yuli Gurriel will continue to play in the World Series after making a racially insensitive squinting gesture directed at Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Yu Darvish in Game 3 on Friday. Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred said Saturday that the Gurriel will serve a five-game suspension in 2018 instead.

"There is no question that it is a difficult decision as to when the appropriate timing was," Manfred said in a statement. "Obviously World Series games are different than regular-season games, and I used my best judgment as to where the appropriate disciplinary level fell. I understand that people may have different views. But it was my best judgment that this timing was appropriate."

Manfred said he "felt it was unfair to punish the other 24 players on the Astros roster" for World Series games.

In the second inning of Game 3, Gurriel used his fingers to slant his eyes in an offensive gesture aimed at those of Asian descent after hitting a home run off Darvish, whose mother is from Japan and whose father is from Iran. Gurriel also was seen mouthing a derogatory word in Spanish.

MLB will require Gurriel is expected to undergo "sensitivity training" in the offseason. He offered an apology to Darvish, the Astros, the Dodgers, MLB and the fans.

"I sincerely apologize to everyone that I offended with my actions," Gurriel said in a statement. "I deeply regret it."

Gurriel, 33, is Cuban and is in his second season in the Majors. He shares the same agent with Darvish.

Many have praised Darvish for his handling of the situation. He posted a message of positivity on social media.

“No one is perfect. That includes both you and I. What he had done today isn’t right, but I believe we should put our effort into learning rather than to accuse him. If we can take something from this, that is a giant step for mankind. Since we are living in such a wonderful world, let’s stay positive and move forward instead of focusing on anger. I’m counting on everyone’s big love.”