Albert Pujols, retired MLB slugger, continues his ventures into baseball management. After interviewing last fall with the Los Angeles Angels and San Diego Padres, he took an unexpected route. Pujols ended up managing the Dominican Republic team in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, which lost to the United States, the eventual runner-up. He also serves as the president of baseball operations for Estrellas Orientales in the Dominican Winter League. In 2025, during his initial year as a professional manager, Pujols led Leones del Escogido to the league championship.
The New York Mets recently dismissed manager Carlos Mendoza following a disappointing season. This has opened a potential opportunity for Pujols. John Harper from the New York Daily News indicated that Pujols is interested in the Mets job, highlighting his strong relationship with star player Juan Soto.
The Mets have chosen Andy Green, a special assistant, as their interim manager. This decision gives David Stearns, president of baseball operations, ample time to find a permanent replacement. At 46, Pujols remains a strong candidate deserving of consideration.
“Pujols would be a more suitable choice in Queens compared to Anaheim or San Diego,” said former coach Eric Chavez. “Managers must command respect, especially with players like Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor on the roster.”
In San Diego, former MLB outfielder Mike Cameron expressed concerns that Pujols’ presence could prove distracting. He believed a low-profile manager might better suit the team. Additionally, the Padres’ evolving ownership situation, marked by the Seidler family’s sale of their majority share to Jose E. Feliciano and Kwanza Jones, created instability.
New York’s circumstances differ. Owner Steve Cohen supports the franchise with the league’s most substantial payroll. Soto’s record-setting $765 million contract stands as evidence. Pujols, among the few living players comprehending this level of expectation, aligns with the team’s needs.
Pujols was also the first known applicant for the Angels’ managerial position after they declined Ron Washington’s 2026 option. Despite Pujols’ willingness, contract length became a barrier. The Angels chose Kurt Suzuki for a one-year term, not ideal for a rookie manager.
“You require a leader, someone with presence and dignity,” added Chavez. “A leader who commands respect in a room.”
Pujols’ decision to bypass the Angels’ offer proved wise. The team finds itself struggling in the American League West. Though the Mets face similar challenges, they possess the talent and Cohen’s financial flexibility to improve in forthcoming seasons.
Surprisingly, the interim role was not given to Carlos Beltran, now a special assistant to Stearns. Beltran managed the Mets briefly post-2019 but was embroiled in the Houston Astros’ sign-stealing scandal before managing a game. Despite this, his potential makes him a formidable contender, akin to Pujols.
Pujols offers more managing experience than Beltran, particularly in international settings. His success in the Dominican Republic might translate well to an MLB team. With the Mets in need of fresh leadership, Pujols’ credentials could be the remedy for players struggling under high expectations.
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