Albert Pujols viewed as favorite for MLB manager job

Albert Pujols has a very real chance of becoming manager of the Los Angeles Angels.

Pujols is thought to be the leading choice of Angels owner Arte Moreno to become the team’s new manager, according to Ken Rosenthal, Sam Blum, and Katie Woo of The Athletic. The report even states that at least one source believes the job is Pujols’ if he wants it.

Moreno is known to regard Pujols highly. The owner has the final say on the team’s next manager, with general manager Perry Minasian relegated to a secondary role in the process.

Pujols is already on the Angels’ payroll. As part of his free agent contract with the team, he agreed to a 10-year personal services contract that would kick in after his retirement. Pujols has honored that part of the deal, even though he did not actually retire as a member of the Angels.

Pujols was quickly linked to the job after the Angels decided to move on from Ron Washington after two seasons. He has never coached at the MLB level before, but he has shown previous interest in managing. He also managed in the Dominican Winter League. His name and reputation alone would ensure he is held in high regard by players.

The Angels are coming off a 72-90 season and do not appear close to being a contender. They have not made the playoffs since 2014 and have not posted a winning season since 2015.