Albert Pujols Is An Emerging Candidate For Angels Manager

Alex Neier

Albert Pujols is a name going around the MLB managerial carousel. Five clubs are now in the hunt for a new skipper heading into the 2026 season. While names are flying around for openings with the Giants, Rangers, Twins, and Braves, the most intriguing story might be brewing in Anaheim.

Following the departure of Ron Washington and interim manager Ray Montgomery, the Los Angeles Angels are in the market for a new leader. And it looks like owner Arte Moreno has his sights set on a former player.

Arte Moreno’s Top Choice: Albert Pujols

According to multiple reports, Angels owner Arte Moreno is zeroing in on Albert Pujols as his top choice to take the helm. The Athletic has even suggested the job is Pujols’ to turn down.

While the future Hall of Famer has no official MLB managing experience, he’s not exactly a rookie in the dugout. Pujols managed the Leones del Escogido to a Dominican Winter League title last year and is slated to manage the Dominican Republic in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

The question is, would Moreno and the Angels’ front office be willing to wait that long?

Pujols’ Hall of Fame Career

There’s no debating Pujols’ credentials as a player. Over 22 seasons with the Cardinals, Angels, and Dodgers, he was a force of nature.

His incredible career includes:

  • .296 batting average
  • 703 home runs
  • Three MVP Awards
  • 11 All-Star selections
  • Two World Series titles

While his best years were undoubtedly in St. Louis, where he posted a staggering 1.031 OPS, his connection to the Angels remains strong. After signing a 10-year, $240 million deal in 2012, Albert Pujols is still technically on the team’s payroll through a 10-year personal services contract.

Is Albert Pujols the Answer for the Angels?

The Angels have been stuck in a frustrating cycle, burning through four full-time managers since Mike Scioscia’s departure after the 2018 season. The team hasn’t sniffed the playoffs since 2014 and has hovered around 73 wins in three of the last four seasons.

Bringing in a beloved figure like Albert Pujols could be the spark the franchise desperately needs. He commands immense respect throughout the league and has a deep understanding of the game. Other potential candidates mentioned include former players Torii Hunter and Michael Young, but none carry the weight of Pujols’ name.

This is shaping up to be one of the biggest storylines to watch this MLB offseason. Will “The Machine” trade his bat for a lineup card and lead the Angels back to relevance?

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