Boston Red Sox legend David Ortiz called out the Los Angeles Angels for releasing veteran first baseman Albert Pujols on Thursday.
Ortiz took to Instagram to express sympathy for Pujols and said he felt the future Hall of Famer deserved a better ending to his career with the Halos.
The Angels signed Pujols to a 10-year, $240 million contract in December 2011 after he earned a reputation as the best hitter in baseball during his time with the St. Louis Cardinals.
However, the 41-year-old has not been the same since his days in St. Louis. Pujols has really struggled this season, slashing .198/.250/.372 with five home runs and 12 RBI.
The Dominican native is hoping to land another job this season, but it's unclear if any teams are interested in signing him.
Ortiz's experience was far different. He was productive right up until his retirement after the 2016 season. Still, he feels Pujols deserved better if this truly is the end of his career.
Ortiz's former teammate, Pedro Martinez, also slammed the Angels for their decision to release the veteran.
Albert @PujolsFive I know the glory is of God, not of man; that’s why I’m not surprised about the shameful way @Angels treated you and your legacy today.
— Pedro Martinez (@45PedroMartinez) May 6, 2021
Everyone in baseball feels proud of you and the way you handled yourself. Thank you for being one of the best in the game pic.twitter.com/zqeiFKzAo9
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