When asked why he declined to pinch-run for Wells late in the game, Pujols was characteristically blunt: “How can you remove your best catcher from the field? It’s easy for people outside the lines to second-guess, but you aren’t analyzing the real-time flow of the game.“

With only two innings remaining and the tying run at a premium, many analysts argued that Pujols should have swapped Wells for a more explosive runner to capitalize on late-inning traffic.

Ultimately, Pujols stood by his tactical choice, but the Dominican squad failed to convert a late-inning chance to level the score.

Analyzing the high-stakes moments involving Wells

To understand the tactical divide, one must look at several pivotal sequences where the Dominican Republic’s offensive momentum stalled.

In the fourth inning, Wells stepped in with the bases loaded and two outs but flied out to center field. The missed opportunity allowed Skenes to escape a massive jam and preserve what was then a tied ballgame.

Later, in the seventh, the Dominicans threatened again, but a lack of elite foot speed kept Wells stationary at third base on a potential scoring play.

The sequence ended in frustration as Gregory Soto’s relief effort was undermined by Fernando Tatis Jr. and Ketel Marte striking out. This proved to be the final clear opening for the Dominican lineup to swing the momentum back in their favor.

The ninth-inning controversy in Miami

In a last-ditch effort, Julio Rodriguez drew a walk in the ninth, finally prompting Pujols to utilize his bench. Oneil Cruz entered as a pinch-hitter, eventually drawing a walk of his own to move the winning run into scoring position.

The comeback bid reached a fever pitch with the bases loaded for Geraldo Perdomo, but his chance was cut short by an immensely controversial strike-three call. The slider from Mason Miller appeared to fall well below the zone, sparking immediate outrage from the Dominican dugout.

The tension spilled over into the press room when a Dominican reporter pressed Miller on the final pitch in WBC semifinals. Before the fireballer could offer his perspective, tournament officials abruptly ended the press conference.

Albert Pujols watched his club overwhelm Korea in a 10–0 quarterfinal victory, a game that highlighted the athleticism and instincts of Soto and Guerrero Jr.. Even without a barrage of home runs, the Dominican lineup consistently pressured the defense through aggressive baserunning and timely hitting.

After the game, Pujols emphasized how that approach could create problems for any opponent — including Team USA in the later stages of the tournament. “Speaking about Vladimir Guerrero and Juan Soto, maybe they are not the fastest runners, but they were aggressive on the bases,” Pujols said, according to MLB.com.

He also added, “When you have this kind of team that can damage you not only with the bat, but the way they play so aggressively, they know about the importance of this tournament for themselves, for the country, for our homeland.”

How did Guerrero Jr. spark the Dominican Republic offense?

The tone of the game was set early when Guerrero reached base with a walk in the second inning against former teammate Hyun Jin Ryu. Moments later, Junior Caminero drove a double into the left-field corner, giving Guerrero the opportunity to test Korea’s defense.

Racing around the bases, Guerrero approached home as the throw arrived ahead of him. Instead of sliding conventionally, the star first baseman launched into the air and stretched toward the inside of the plate, narrowly avoiding the tag to score the Dominican Republic’s first run.

Why does Pujols believe the lineup can trouble Team USA?

Pujols pointed out that the Dominican lineup’s value goes beyond raw power. With hitters such as Fernando Tatis Jr., Julio Rodriguez, Soto, and Guerrero capable of turning any play into a scoring opportunity, the team has created pressure on opposing defenses throughout the tournament.

With the Dominican Republic advancing deeper into the tournament, performances like this reinforce why the team remains one of the most dangerous contenders. If their mix of power and aggressive baserunning continues, the path to the World Baseball Classic title could eventually run through Pujols’ squad.

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, Pujols’ second interview with the Padres extended over nine and a half hours, a clear indication of the team’s serious interest. Nightengale shared via his X account, “How serious are the San Diego Padres about hiring future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols as their next manager? His second interview with the Padres lasted 9 1/2 hours.“

When a potential candidate spends such an extended period engaged with a team’s executive staff, it often signifies strong mutual interest. Pujols, a candidate for the Hall of Fame, brings a reputation and a set of values that align with what the Padres appear to be seeking in their next manager.

Uncertainty remains about Cardinals legend’s future as the Padres’ head coach; however, rumors suggest other franchises, such as the Baltimore Orioles, might also be interested in adding him to their coaching staff.

Pujols’ credentials stir interest across MLB

Should Pujols enter the MLB managerial ranks, it would mark his debut in this capacity. His management experience is rooted in his native Dominican Republic, where he led Leones del Escogido to two championship titles last season.

Additionally, Pujols is slated to manage the Dominican Republic Baseball Team in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. His strategic acumen, complemented by the mentorship he received from the legendary manager Tony La Russa, could influence the Padres’ decision following their reported meeting on Tuesday.

As the offseason unfolds, with teams like the Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers still vying for the World Series title, the Padres could provide Pujols with a prime opportunity to make his MLB managerial debut and prove his mettle in this new challenge.

According to MLB insider Mark Feinsand, “Albert Pujols will not be the Angels’ next manager, per source.” Consequently, his prospects of returning to Major League Baseball as a manager now potentially lie with two other franchises. As reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the San Diego Padres and the Baltimore Orioles may have an eye on Pujols for their managerial roles.

With the MLB season nearing its climax, as the Los Angeles Dodgers await the ALCS victor between the Seattle Mariners and the Toronto Blue Jays, several teams are already mapping out strategies for the next season following underwhelming performances.

In particular, the Orioles, Padres, and Angels stand out as teams falling short this season; both Baltimore and Los Angeles missed the postseason, while San Diego exited in the Wild Card round. Thus, these franchises are reportedly in search of fresh leadership for the 2026 season.

Why are teams considering Pujols?

Cardinals‘ legend appeal as a managerial candidate largely hinges on his extensive MLB experience. While his managerial experience at the Major League level is unproven, his potential transition is fueled by his recent success managing a team in his native Dominican Republic, securing both a league championship and the Caribbean Series title.

Furthermore, his upcoming role as manager of the Dominican Republic Baseball Team in the 2026 World Baseball Classic significantly bolsters his credentials, generating substantial interest among MLB franchises.

Pujols’ mentorship and preparation

Often, great leaders emerge from the guidance they’ve received. Pujols has benefited from close ties with legendary manager Tony La Russa during his final MLB years, gleaning insights and knowledge pertinent to managerial success.

Given this mentorship, along with his role as a special consultant with the Angels since retirement, Pujols stands poised to become a prominent managerial candidate on the MLB stage in the near future.

According to a report by Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Cardinals legend is set to interview with the Los Angeles Angels franchise for their head coaching position. “Future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols will be among those interviewed for the Angels’ managing job,” Heyman announced on his X account.

If this opportunity materializes, it would mark a new chapter for Pujols in the MLB, joining the ranks of former players who transitioned to managerial roles post-retirement. As Pujols, a future Hall of Famer, prepares for this potential interview, the Angels’ fan base eagerly anticipates the outcome.

Pujols could be returning to a familiar setting where he once left a significant legacy, despite never capturing a World Series title during his tenure in Los Angeles. He spent a decade with the Angels, leading them to a postseason berth, but ultimately falling short in the 2014 Wild Card Series.

Pujols could embark on his first managerial experience

After three years out of any on-field MLB roles, this Dominican icon may trailblaze his way into a managerial position with a team he represented for 10 years. The Angels, driven by a strong desire for victory, have not reached the postseason since Pujols last wore their jersey in 2014.

Should this prospect become reality, Pujols would face the formidable task of orchestrating a competitive team centered around Mike Trout, the Angels’ standout star, who needs a strong supporting cast to advance deeper into the season.

Angels’ struggles last season

Competing in a division with powerhouses like the Seattle Mariners and the Houston Astros proved challenging for the Los Angeles franchise, which fell short of delivering top-tier performance across 162 regular-season games.

Finishing with a 72-90 record, the Angels placed last in their AL West standings and ranked third in the league for most runs allowed (837). As both the team and its fans strategize on how to improve in the upcoming season, the sole highlight from last year was their regular-season victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The home run is baseball’s ultimate moment—the instant when the stadium erupts and the ball vanishes into the night. But not all are the same. Some define careers, others shatter records and a select few become the stuff of legend.

From Babe Ruth forever changing the game with his prodigious power to Barry Bonds rewriting history with 762 home runs, the league’s greatest sluggers have left an indelible mark on the sport. But who are the all-time home run leaders?

This journey through baseball’s most prolific sluggers not only celebrates their staggering numbers but also the stories and legacies they’ve etched into the heart of the game, leaving an everlasting impact on MLB history.

13. Mickey Mantle – 536 HR

Known as “Big Mac”, Mark McGwire left an unforgettable mark on baseball with his impressive power at the plate. Debuting in 1986, he quickly made an impact, setting a rookie record with 49 home runs in 1987—a mark that stood until 2017.

His most memorable season came in 1998 when he hit 70 home runs, breaking the single-season record at the time. Over his career, he amassed 583 home runs, cementing himself as one of the most feared sluggers of his era.

12. David Ortiz – 541 HR

Nicknamed “Big Papi”, David Ortiz became a Boston Red Sox icon and one of the most prolific designated hitters in MLB history. Debuting in 1997, he found his greatest success after joining the Red Sox in 2003.

With 541 career home runs, he played a crucial role in securing three World Series titles for Boston. On September 12, 2015, he reached the 500-home run milestone, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest sluggers of all time.

11. Mark McGwire – 583 HR

Mickey Mantle, a New York Yankees legend, is remembered for his combination of power and speed. Playing his entire career with the Yankees from 1951 to 1968, he hit 536 home runs, many of them traveling prodigious distances that fueled his myth. Despite injuries that plagued his career, he was selected to 20 All-Star Games and won three American League MVP awards, leaving an indelible mark on baseball history.

10. Frank Robinson – 586 HR

Frank Robinson was one of the most complete hitters in baseball history, combining power, consistency, and leadership. Playing from 1956 to 1976, he hit 586 home runs and became the first player to win the MVP award in both the National League (1961) and the American League (1966).

His 1966 season with the Baltimore Orioles was legendary, as he won the Triple Crown and led the team to its first World Series title. Beyond his accomplishments as a player, he made history as the first Black manager in MLB, further solidifying his legacy in the sport.

9. Sammy Sosa – 609 HR

Born in the Dominican Republic, Sammy Sosa became an international sensation during the 1998 home run chase, battling Mark McGwire for the single-season record. That year, he finished with 66 home runs and went on to total 609 over his career.

A seven-time All-Star and the 1998 National League MVP, his energy and enthusiasm made him a beloved figure in Chicago and beyond. His role in revitalizing baseball during the late 1990s cemented his legacy as one of the game’s most dynamic sluggers.

8. Jim Thome – 612 HR

Known for his humility and prodigious power, Jim Thome became one of the most respected sluggers of his generation. Playing from 1991 to 2012, he hit his 500th career homer on September 16, 2007.

His patient approach at the plate, combined with his ability to hit towering home runs, made him a vital asset to every team he played for. A five-time All-Star, he was celebrated for both his offensive achievements and his sportsmanship.

7. Ken Griffey Jr. – 630 HR

With his smooth left-handed swing and infectious smile, Ken Griffey Jr. was one of baseball’s most popular players. Debuting in 1989, he reached the 500-home-run milestone on June 20, 2004.

A 13-time All-Star and 10-time Gold Glove winner, “Junior” was not only a feared power hitter but also one of the best defensive center fielders of his era. Despite injuries limiting his later years, His impact on the game and his effortless power made him a fan favorite and Hall of Famer.

6. Willie Mays – 660 HR

Nicknamed “The Say Hey Kid”, Willie Mays is widely regarded as one of the most complete players in baseball history. Playing from 1951 to 1973, he blended power, speed, and defensive brilliance to compile 660 career home runs.

In addition to his offensive prowess, he was a 12-time Gold Glove winner and a 24-time All-Star, making his mark as one of the greatest center fielders ever. His electrifying style and charisma made him a beloved figure in the sport.

5. Alex Rodriguez – 696 HR

Alex Rodriguez, known as “A-Rod”, combined power, speed, and fielding ability to become one of MLB’s premier sluggers. Debuting in 1994, he reached his 500th career home run on August 4, 2007, becoming the youngest player to achieve the feat at just 32 years and eight days old.

A 14-time All-Star and three-time American League MVP, he was an offensive force throughout his career. While his legacy was clouded by controversy, his impact on the game remains undeniable.

4. Albert Pujols – 703 HR

Hailing from the Dominican Republic, Albert Pujols established himself as one of the most feared and consistent hitters of his generation. Debuting in 2001, he quickly proved his offensive dominance, reaching the 500-home-run milestone on April 22, 2014.

Throughout his illustrious career, he was an 11-time All-Star and a three-time National League MVP. Known for his impeccable work ethic and dedication to the game, he sustained an elite level of play for over two decades, solidifying his place among baseball’s all-time greats.

3. Babe Ruth – 714 HR

George Herman “Babe” Ruth is perhaps the most legendary figure in baseball history. Playing from 1914 to 1935, he revolutionized the game with his unparalleled power, smashing 714 home runs at a time when such numbers were unheard of.

He became the first player to reach the 500-home-run milestone on August 11, 1929, setting a standard for future sluggers. Beyond his offensive prowess, he began his career as a dominant pitcher before transitioning into the game’s first true power hitter, forever altering baseball’s trajectory.

2. Hank Aaron – 755 HR

Affectionately known as “Hammerin’ Hank”, Hank Aaron‘s 755 career home runs stood as the MLB record for over three decades. Playing from 1954 to 1976, he was the model of consistency, recording 20 or more home runs in 20 consecutive seasons—an unparalleled achievement.

On April 8, 1974, he surpassed Babe Ruth’s long-standing record with his 715th homer, a moment that transcended sports as Aaron faced racism and adversity while chasing history. His resilience and excellence on the field made him an icon, both in baseball and in American culture.

1. Barry Bonds – 762 HR

Barry Bonds stands as Major League Baseball’s all-time home run king, amassing 762 career homers. His career, spanning from 1986 to 2007, was defined by an exceptional combination of power, plate discipline and athleticism.

In 2001, he shattered the single-season home run record with an astonishing 73, a feat that remains unmatched. A 14-time All-Star and seven-time National League MVP, he was both feared and revered for his ability to change a game with one swing. Despite the controversies surrounding his later years, his dominance at the plate cemented his legacy as one of the greatest hitters in baseball history.

In the MLB there have been many legendary hitters, some with great swings and hitting presence. Below are 25 of the best hitters in MLB history, many of them legends of the game.

Here are 25 of the best hitters in MLB history, batter up! Take a swing and hit it out of the park!

Mike Schmidt

Noted for his power hitting and exceptional defense as a third baseman. Finished his career with 548 home runs and a three-time MVP.

A 10-time Gold Glove winner, showcasing his defensive prowess. Inducted into the Hall of Fame due to his all-around skill set.

Albert Pujols

Renowned for his consistency and power, notably with the St. Louis Cardinals. Achieved 3,236 hits and 667 home runs in his illustrious career.

A three-time MVP and known for his remarkable hitting and leadership. Considered one of the most complete hitters of his era.

Roberto Clemente

Highly regarded for his hitting and remarkable outfield arm. Finished with 3,000 hits and a career .317 batting average.

A 12-time Gold Glove winner and won the NL MVP in 1966. His tragic death while on a humanitarian mission cemented his legendary status.

Frank Robinson

Known for his powerful hitting and strong overall offensive abilities. Achieved 586 home runs and became the first player to win MVP awards in both leagues.

A 14-time All-Star and led the Orioles to two World Series titles as a player-manager. Regarded for his impactful career both on and off the field.

Joe DiMaggio

Renowned for his remarkable 56-game hitting streak, a record that still stands. Finished his career with a .325 batting average and 361 home runs.

A three-time MVP and 13-time All-Star in his celebrated career. Remembered for his impact on the game and his marriage to Marilyn Monroe.

Honus Wagner

Known as one of the earliest superstars of the game. Finished his career with a .328 batting average and excelled in every facet of the game.

One of the first five players inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. His rare baseball card is one of the most valuable collectibles in sports history.

Jimmie Foxx

Renowned for his incredible power, hitting 534 home runs in his career. A three-time MVP and part of two World Series-winning teams.

Notable for his exceptional hitting and feared presence at the plate. Regarded as one of the greatest power hitters in baseball history.

Alex Rodriguez

Known for his exceptional power and versatile defensive skills. Finished his career with 696 home runs and won three MVP awards.

A 14-time All-Star, showcasing his impact on the game. Despite controversies, his hitting prowess remains undoubted.

Ken Griffey Jr.

Regarded for his smooth swing and exceptional fielding in center field. Concluded his career with 630 home runs and 13 All-Star selections.

A 10-time Gold Glove winner, displaying all-around skills on the field. Known for his charisma and impact on the game.

Pete Rose

Holds the record for the most career hits with 4,256. A 17-time All-Star and 1973 NL MVP.

Played with intensity and consistency throughout his career. His ban from baseball due to gambling remains a controversial point in his legacy.

Mel Ott

Renowned for his powerful hitting and unique batting stance. Concluded his career with 511 home runs and a .304 batting average.

A 12-time All-Star and known for his consistency as a hitter. Respected as one of the early power hitters in the game.

Miguel Cabrera

Known for his exceptional contact hitting and power. Achieved 2,955 hits and 487 home runs in his career.

A two-time MVP and winner of the Triple Crown in 2012. Recognized for his consistency and all-around hitting skills.

Tony Gwynn

Revered for his incredible bat control and high contact rate. Finished his career with 3,141 hits and a .338 batting average.

An eight-time batting champion and 15-time All-Star. Known for his dedication to the game and prowess as a hitter.

Chipper Jones

Renowned for his switch-hitting skills and consistency as a hitter. Concluded his career with 468 home runs and a .303 batting average.

A 1999 NL MVP and an eight-time All-Star. Regarded as a key figure in Braves’ history and a clutch performer.

Rod Carew

Known for his exceptional contact hitting and unique batting stance. Finished his career with 3,053 hits and a .328 batting average.

A seven-time batting champion and 18-time All-Star. Regarded for his consistent and skilled approach at the plate.

Babe Ruth

Revolutionized baseball, transitioning from a dominant pitcher to an iconic power hitter. Set numerous records, including the single-season home run record.

Won seven World Series titles and boasted a lifetime .342 batting average with 714 home runs. Notably known as one of the greatest players in baseball history.

Ted Williams

Renowned for his remarkable .344 career batting average and exceptional plate discipline. Achieved two Triple Crowns and two MVP awards during his career.

Known for being the last player to hit .400 in a season, boasting a .406 average in 1941. Highly regarded for his skills as one of the most consistent hitters in the game’s history.

Barry Bonds

Despite controversies, holds the records for most career home runs (762) and single-season home runs (73). Known for his exceptional combination of power and plate discipline.

Seven-time NL MVP, demonstrating an unparalleled impact as a hitter in MLB history. Accumulated 2,935 hits and 2,558 walks during his career.

Ty Cobb

Famed for his aggressive and intense playing style. Holds the highest lifetime batting average at .366 and won numerous batting titles.

Known for his all-around abilities on the field and his remarkable 4,189 career hits. One of the inaugural inductees into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Stan Musial

Consistently performed as a hitter, securing seven NL batting titles. Wrapped up his career with 3,630 hits and an impressive .331 batting average.

A versatile player who excelled in both the outfield and at first base. Three-time NL MVP, illustrating his excellence in hitting and overall play.

Hank Aaron

Broke Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record, finishing with 755 homers. Consistent hitter and record holder for the most career RBIs (2,297).

A 25-time All-Star and 1957 National League MVP, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.

Recognized as a Hall of Famer for his power and longevity in the game.

Willie Mays

Known as a five-tool player, excelling in hitting, fielding, and baserunning. Finished his career with 660 home runs and 3,283 hits.

A two-time NL MVP and a 24-time All-Star, showcasing his all-around skills in the game. Famous for “The Catch” during the 1954 World Series, adding to his legendary status.

Lou Gehrig

Known for his consecutive games played streak of 2,130 and remarkable durability. Finished with 493 home runs and a career .340 batting average.

A seven-time All-Star and six-time World Series champion with the Yankees. His diagnosis with ALS, now known as “Lou Gehrig’s Disease,” brought attention to the ailment.

Mickey Mantle

Regarded for his exceptional power as a switch-hitter. Concluded his career with 536 home runs and a .298 batting average.

A three-time MVP and 20-time All-Star, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Recognized as one of the greatest switch-hitters in baseball history.

Rogers Hornsby

Achieved two Triple Crowns, particularly for his outstanding batting average. Finished his career with a .358 batting average and 301 home runs.

Two-time NL MVP, dominating offensive statistics in his era. Known for his intense and at times challenging personality.

The last time Pujols came close to winning a derby home run was in 2003 when he reached the derby final and lost to Garrett Anderson 8-9 but during that year he was the player with the most home runs although it was not enough to win.

On the other hand there is the young blood of Ronald Acuña Jr, he is a valuable underdog who could become a favorite if his performance during the first round is good. But against so many favorites and defending champion Pete Alonso, Ronald is unlikely to win this year.

The 2022 MLB Home Run Derby participants

Number one on the list is Pete Alonso as he is the defending champion for the last two editions and if Alonso wins this year he could set a record for the longest winning streak in the derby. Alonso is one of the top 10 home run leaders in the current regular season.

1. Pete Alonso
2. Kyle Schwarber
3. Juan Soto
4. Ronald Acuna Jr.
5. Julio Rodriguez
6. Corey Seager
7. Jose Ramirez
8. Albert Pujols

The Underdogs are obviously Jose Ramirez, Albert Pujols and Corey Seager but the latter could be one of the best underdogs in the derby along with Ronald Acuña Jr and Julio Rodriguez. The National League has won the last three derby games, while the AL last won when Aaron Judge won the title in 2017.

This season Pujols is still showing he can go a few more years with an OBP of .324 and 4 home runs with 18 hits and 15 RBIs. La Maquina still has fuel in the tank although San Diego Padres shortstop Manny Machado believes that the MLB have not given Pujols the respect they have shown others.

Speaking to the St. Louis Post Dispatch Machado gave his thoughts on the matter and why he believes Albert Pujols deserves the farewell tour that Derek Jeter and David Ortiz received.

Manny Machado on Albert Pujols retiring

“It’s kind of (bovine dung) that teams are not giving him a farewell tour,” Machado stated. “I’ll tell you that right now. Why? Albert has been the best player in our generation to ever play this game, and to see him doing the things he’s doing — I mean, it’s just unbelievable. It’s freaking special that St. Louis gave him the opportunity to come back here and finish off his career as a Cardinal.”

Pujols may not have the chance to make it to 700 career home runs but to many the first baseman turned DH was one of the best if not the best ball player in the 2000s.

While not totally being ignored Pujols did receive standing ovations while on road games against the San Francisco Giants and the New York Mets.

For now only Pujols is the only 3,000 hit club member active playing in MLB for the St. Louis Cardinals as a designated hitter. But the 42-year-old Pujols is close to the end of his career, although it is likely that he will play another season or two before retiring.

In the 21st century, very few players were able to go over 3,100 hits, only three players managed to score a little more than the mark, Jeter with 3,465, Alex Rodriguez with 3,115, and Cal Ripken Jr with 3,184 hits.

Who is the upcoming 3,000 hit club member?

Miguel Cabrera is close to joining the exclusive club as he needs only 4 hits to reach 3,000 hits. Most of Cabrera’s hits have been as the Tigers although he played five years with the Florida Marlins from 2003 to 2007, but from 2008 onwards Cabrera is part of the Detroit Tigers.

Cabrera also has another record, the 500 home runs club, so far he has 502 home runs in addition to almost two thousand runs. Cabrera was also named an 11x All-Star and was a one-time World Series Champion with the Marlins in 2003.

How many mlb players have 3,000 hits?

32 players are members of the 3,000 hit club, most of them joined the club in the 20th century, and Pete Rose set the record for hits with a total of 4,256 that so far no one has been able to break, only Ty Cobb was able to come close to that number with a total of 4,189 hits.

Pujols had signed a 10-year, 253 million deal with the Angels back in 2012 and, even though he wasn’t nearly half as productive over the past couple of seasons as he was earlier in his career, he’s still a marquee name around the league.

“The Angels organization proudly signed Albert in 2011, and are honored that he was worn the Angels jersey for nearly half of his Hall-of-Fame career,” said team owner Arte Moreno via the team’s social media accounts.

Angels’ Front Office Decided To Bench Pujols

However, it seems like there was a bit of a rift between the Dominican legend and the front office. Apparently, they made the decision not to put him in against Ryan Yarbrough, knowing that it would infuriate him:

“According to source, #Angels slugger Albert Pujols was upset that he wasn’t in lineup to face #Rays bulk LHP Ryan Yarbrough last night, and that the decision to bench him came from front office, not MGR Joe Maddon. Pujols was 6 for 9 with 2 HR, 2 2Bs, 7 RBIs vs. Yarbough,” reported Mike DiGiovanna.

Pujols and the Angels had reportedly reached an agreement. Albert told them that, unless he was allowed to play regularly, he would much rather be released from the team and pursue another chance elsewhere.

Now, Yadier Molina is reportedly advocating for him to come back to the St. Louis Cardinals, the team where he won a couple of World Series titles and became one of the greatest hitters of all time.

Whether he’ll join the Cardinals or not, we hope that he gets the last chance to prove his worth. The game and the league owe him way too much to just let him walk away after such a remarkable career.