What's happened
Albert Pujols is the front-runner to manage the Angels after a positive meeting with GM Perry Minasian. The team is seeking a new manager following Ron Washington's departure after a poor 2025 season. Pujols, a former Angels player, has managerial experience in the Dominican Winter League and World Baseball Classic.
What's behind the headline?
Pujols' transition from player to manager signals a shift in MLB coaching trends, with former players increasingly considered for managerial roles. His familiarity with the Angels' culture and his international coaching experience position him as a strong candidate to bring stability and leadership. The Angels' decision to consider Pujols reflects a broader trend of valuing managerial candidates with diverse backgrounds and proven leadership in international competitions. If hired, Pujols will likely face the challenge of translating his playing success into effective team management, especially given the team's recent struggles. The ongoing negotiations suggest the team is optimistic about his fit, but the final decision will significantly impact their 2026 prospects.
What the papers say
The Athletic reports that Pujols is the Angels' first choice after a positive meeting with GM Perry Minasian. ESPN notes that Pujols has managerial experience in the Dominican Winter League and for the Dominican National Team, but has not managed in MLB. The NY Post highlights Moreno's support for Pujols and the ongoing contract negotiations. The AP News emphasizes Pujols' previous discussions with the Angels and his potential to be their first in-season MLB manager, marking a significant career transition for the Hall of Famer.
How we got here
The Angels dismissed Ron Washington after a 72-90 season and are seeking a new manager. Pujols, who played for the Angels from 2012-2021 and retired in 2022, has been considered a top candidate due to his familiarity with the organization and coaching experience in international leagues. The team has expressed interest in his potential to lead the team in 2026.
Go deeper
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José Alberto Pujols Alcántara is a Dominican professional baseball first baseman and designated hitter for the Los Angeles Angels of Major League Baseball. He previously played 11 seasons for the St.
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Arturo "Arte" Moreno is an American businessman. On May 15, 2003, he became the first Mexican-American to own a major sports team in the United States when he purchased the Anaheim Angels baseball team from the Walt Disney Company.
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The Los Angeles Angels are an American professional baseball team based in the city of Anaheim, California, part of Orange County and the Los Angeles metropolitan area.
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Perry Minasian is an American baseball executive. He is the general manager of the Los Angeles Angels of Major League Baseball.
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Ronald Louis Washington is an American former professional baseball shortstop. He played Major League Baseball for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Minnesota Twins, Baltimore Orioles, Cleveland Indians, and Houston Astros.