In a move that could signal a sentimental homecoming for one of baseball’s most iconic sluggers, the Los Angeles Angels are reportedly on the verge of naming Albert Pujols as their next manager, according to veteran Dominican baseball journalist Franklin Mirabal.
Mirabal, a 29-year editor at the Dominican newspaper HOY and a prominent voice in Caribbean baseball circles, has long been a go-to source for insights into the region’s stars. Known for his coverage of the Dominican Professional Baseball League (LIDOM) and international tournaments, Mirabal’s report—circulating widely on social media and Dominican outlets—cites sources close to the Angels’ front office. The timing couldn’t be more fitting, as the Halos wrap up another disappointing 2025 season under interim leadership, with whispers of a full managerial shakeup intensifying.
Pujols, the 45-year-old Hall of Fame-bound first baseman, spent a tumultuous decade with the Angels from 2012 to 2021, slashing a .256/.308/.437 line while earning over $240 million in a contract that ended on a sour note with his DFA in May 2021. Despite the on-field frustrations—no playoff appearances after 2014—the Dominican legend has maintained ties to the organization through a 10-year, $10 million personal services deal signed upon retirement. That arrangement has kept him in the fold as a special assistant, guest instructor, and ambassador, mending fences with owner Arte Moreno.
What bolsters Pujols’ candidacy isn’t nostalgia alone, but a proven track record in the dugout. Since hanging up his cleats, “The Machine” has thrived as manager of Leones del Escogido in LIDOM, guiding them to the 2024-25 Serie Final championship and a triumphant 2025 Caribbean Series title. His tactical acumen shone in Mexicali, Mexico, where he orchestrated a dramatic comeback against Japan in the series opener. Pujols is also set to helm the Dominican Republic in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, further burnishing his credentials.
“I’ve always held that desire,” Pujols told MLB.com earlier this year during Angels spring training. “If the opportunity is right… I want to manage in the big leagues.” His blend of star power and recent success positions him as a natural fit to mentor a young core featuring Mike Trout (if healthy), Zach Neto, and Logan O’Hoppe—players who could rally around a three-time MVP with 703 career homers.
The Angels’ search has been fluid since parting ways with Ron Washington midseason, with names like Torii Hunter and internal coaches Ray Montgomery also in the mix. But Mirabal’s scoop elevates Pujols to frontrunner status, potentially eclipsing those options. As one Angels insider put it to USA Today, “Pujols is already on the payroll… and his relationship with higher-ups is OK despite the rough ending.”
If confirmed, Pujols’ appointment would mark a bold pivot for a franchise mired in a decade of rebuilds, betting on leadership forged in the fires of LIDOM glory. Fans in Anaheim, still smarting from the Ohtani era’s collapse, might just see this as the spark needed to reignite Halo magic. Official word could come as early as this week, but for now, the baseball world holds its breath—La Máquina may soon be calling the shots.
FRANKLIN MIRABAL on X (formerly Twitter): “Muchas felicidades para Albert Pujols!!!.12 publicaciones de Estados Unidos lo dan como un sólido candidato para ser nombrado pronto como el nuevo dirigente de Anaheim.Pujols actualmente es empleado de los Angels y tiene un salario de 1 millón anual como asesor. pic.twitter.com/CCCcf8ZptH / X”
Muchas felicidades para Albert Pujols!!!.12 publicaciones de Estados Unidos lo dan como un sólido candidato para ser nombrado pronto como el nuevo dirigente de Anaheim.Pujols actualmente es empleado de los Angels y tiene un salario de 1 millón anual como asesor. pic.twitter.com/CCCcf8ZptH
