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Albert Pujols enjoyed a successful 22-year career in the big leagues, primarily with the St. Louis Cardinals. During that run, he won two World Series, was a three-time NL MVP, and was a two-time Gold Glover, just to name a few.
While retired, Pujols still wants to be part of the game. So, he accepted a position to be the manager of the Los Leones del Escogido, a club in the Dominican Republic professional league.
Pujols is excited about his newest venture but has aspirations beyond this. He wants to parlay this into becoming a manager in the big leagues, per Sports Illustrated's Maren Angus-Coombs.
"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,"
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However, for now, he has his sights set on helping his new club in any way that he can.
"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. I think it's an opportunity to hopefuly get a job up here in the big leagues," said Pujols.
Outside of the big leagues, Pujols would love to manage Team Dominican Republic in the next World Baseball Classic.
Albert Pujols would make a great manager in the big leagues
When past players and managers talk about Albert Pujols, they have nothing but good things to say. He was as good off the field as he was on it, which is quite the compliment given his career accomplishments.
Becoming a manager after your playing days are over is nothing new in the big leagues. Plenty of players have had great careers as managers, and Pujols could be no different given the chance.
Pujols already has some experience being an instructor, working with the Los Angeles Angels following retirement. He also knows the game more than most other pros, staying a premier player for over 20 years.
It would not surprise many to hear Pujols' name being called as a manager in the next few years. With how the St. Louis Cardinals have operated over the last few years, Pujols could become Oliver Marmol's replacement.
