In everything he has done in baseball, Albert Pujols‘ mentality has always been great.
Now that he is a manager, and although he confesses that he is not looking for it, he assures that if the Major Leagues call him to direct, he would never say no.
“By 2025, if they get me that possibility, I am one hundred percent available,” Pujols said with a wide smile and full of emotion.
Also, laughing, he clarified that regarding that possibility, “no, not yet, (the offer to direct) but that will come in the future.”
However, Pujols insists his focus is on the Chosen One and the mission of winning a championship for the franchise.
“Right now my job is here, my responsibility is to the boys and the Leones del Esgido and that is my focus,” says Pujols, who has led the Lions after their first 23 games to a 16-7 record.
The former first baseman who hit 703 home runs explained that winning first with the Chosen One, “that has been our focus since training on September 23, since I took these reins, I saw the boys, the roster, and the opportunity. “I’ve been a fan of this organization since I was a kid and having the opportunity to be a manager and give the team a championship would be great for us.”
In 2024, the season began with six managers who are Latin American or of Latin descent. They were the Dominican Oliver Mármol (St. Louis Cardinals), the Venezuelan Carlos Mendoza (Mets), Josué Espada (Astros), Davey Martínez (Nationals) and Alex Cora (Red Sox).
“If they call me and offer me, of course one is going to have that door open, because that is the dream of every manager, to be one in the Major Leagues,” Pujols explained, certain that if they give themselves the chance, their time to direct and
Graduate in Social Communication, graduated from the Santo Domingo Catholic University. He has been a sports journalist since 1999.
Interviewer: Good day, everyone. I’m delighted to have two distinguished guests with us today – Mr. Albert Pujols, renowned baseball player and current manager of the Leones del Esgido, and Ms. Iliana Rondón, sports journalist with extensive experience in the field. Today, we’ll be discussing Albert’s transition into management and his future aspirations in the Major Leagues.
Albert, you’ve made quite a name for yourself in baseball, both as a player and now as a manager. How do you feel about this new role, and what led you to pursue it?
Albert Pujols: As a manager, I feel extremely satisfied and fulfilled. I have always had a passion for the game, and now I get to share my knowledge and experience with young players who are eager to learn and grow. The opportunity to guide them to success is something that I cherish deeply.
Iliana, as a sports journalist, could you comment on Albert’s transition into management and your observations on his leadership style?
Iliana Rondón: Albert Pujols’ mentality has always been great, both as a player and now as a manager. He is highly respected by his players, and they look up to him for guidance and inspiration. His leadership style is collaborative and inclusive, which allows him to connect with his players on a personal level.
Mr. Pujols, you mentioned that you would consider taking on a managerial role in the Major Leagues if presented with the opportunity. Could you elaborate on your reasons for considering this move and how you think your experience as a player would help you as a manager?
Albert Pujols: In terms of managing in the Major Leagues, it’s not something that I’m actively seeking at this moment. However, if they were to present it, I would be honored and humbled. As a player, I’ve had the privilege of learning from some of the best coaches and managers in the game, and I believe this experience has prepared me well for this next chapter in my career. I would bring that wealth of knowledge to my role as a manager.
Iliana, what are your thoughts on this possibility? Do you see any potential challenges or benefits that could arise from Albert’s transition to management at the
