Albert Pujols is eyeing a managerial role, specifically with the Dominican Republic team for the upcoming World Baseball Classic. The former Los Angeles Angels designated hitter has made it clear that he wants to transition into management.
Recently, Pujols participated in Angels spring training as a guest instructor, fulfilling part of his personal services contract.
During this time, he expressed his desire to return to spring training, but in a managerial capacity. He believes he would be ready for the opportunity if it arises.
Since retiring after the 2022 season, Pujols has kept busy as a special assistant to MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred and as an analyst for the MLB Network. He is also managing Leones del Escogido, a Dominican Winter League team he has long admired.
Pujols sees managing in the Dominican League as a stepping stone toward a future position in Major League Baseball.
He reiterated that in an interview conducted in Spanish with Victor Baez .
“It would be an honor for me,” Pujols said, via Baez.
He hopes that this experience will enhance his chances of landing a job with a big league club. If he doesn't secure a position soon, he remains optimistic that the Dominican Republic will consider him for the World Baseball Classic managerial role.
“Yeah,” Pujols said when asked if he wanted to manage in the big leagues. “I think, you know, why not? If the opportunity is right one day, I think I’ll be ready for that.”
Throughout his illustrious career, Pujols achieved numerous accolades, including three MVP awards and two World Series titles with the St. Louis Cardinals. He also became a member of the 700-home run club and amassed over 3,300 hits.
After spending 11 seasons with the Cardinals, he signed a significant contract with the Angels and concluded his career with brief stints at the Los Angeles Dodgers and back with the Cardinals.
Pujols is eager to embrace this new chapter in his career and contribute to the sport he loves.
“It’s a new chapter in my life, something that I want to do, and it’s great to be able to do it in your own country for an organization that has won 17 league championships,” Pujols said about managing in the Dominican. “I think of it as an opportunity to hopefully get a job up here in the big leagues someday.”
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