Albert Pujols won't manage the Angels, report says
Dominican striker breaks off talks with Los Angeles; Padres and Orioles reported interested
Legendary Dominican slugger Albert Pujols will not manage the Los Angeles Angels. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, both sides have "broken off talks" regarding the managerial vacancy the club is seeking to fill before the 2026 season. According to The Athletic, Pujols and the Californian organization failed to reach an agreement "in terms of money and years." While talks could theoretically summarize, reports indicate that a deal is "highly unlikely." Pujols' name, however, remains in the public eye of other teams: the San Diego Padres and the Baltimore Orioles have expressed interest in his services. Sam Blum, Katie Woo, and Ken Rosenthal had previously stated in early October that Angels owner Arte Moreno viewed the former player as his top option to manage the team. However, contractual differences appear to have closed that door for good.
The Padres seek stability in the dugout and set their sights on Pujols
The turn of events opens the possibility that the Padres will make an aggressive move to try to convince the Dominican. With figures like Manny Machado, Xander Bogaerts and Fernando Tatis Jr., San Diego knows that its championship window with that core will not last forever.
The president of baseball operations, AJ Preller, also needs a change of direction after several failed attempts. Mike Shildt, Bob Melvin and Jayce Tingler each lasted just two seasons as managers. A figure with the authority and respect of Pujols could provide the stability that the franchise is looking for.
However, the three-time Most Valuable Player does not have experience as a full-time manager in the Major Leagues. His only experience as a manager was with the Leones del Esgido, in the Dominican Winter League. Because of this, some analysts believe the Padres might prefer someone with more experience managing the clubhouse.
Despite this, his natural leadership and prestige within baseball make him an attractive candidate. The Padres' two most influential players: Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr. would welcome his arrival, according to ESPN's Alden Gonzalez.