Albert Pujols will not be taking on the role of manager for the Los Angeles Angels, as reported by a team source on Monday. Although there was mutual interest between Pujols and the organization, negotiations ultimately fell short due to differences in financial expectations and contract terms.
While Angels owner Arte Moreno’s decisions can sometimes shift, it seems highly improbable that a consensus can be reached between the two parties at this time. As the Angels move forward, they will be exploring other potential candidates for the managerial position.
Among the prospects is Torii Hunter, another former Angel, who has been mentioned as a candidate, although he is not guaranteed to take the role. The team is also interested in speaking with experienced managers like Brandon Hyde and Rocco Baldelli, although it remains uncertain if those conversations will lead to any mutual interest. Additionally, Kurt Suzuki, a former Angels player and current special assistant to the Angels’ General Manager Perry Minasian, is in the mix for consideration.
Pujols had recently met with Minasian to discuss the managerial position, with reports indicating that their conversation was productive and generated significant momentum toward a potential agreement. At that time, he was viewed as the frontrunner. However, the exact expectations from both sides leading to this outcome remain unclear.
Pujols continues to be financially tied to the Angels, as he is set to receive $7 million over the next seven years due to a personal services contract that was established following his 10-year, $240 million deal with the team in 2012. This contract was part of a larger arrangement that followed his release from the team in May 2021 after ten seasons of play.
As the Angels pivot toward other candidates, there remains a sense of optimism about finding a qualified manager who can lead the team in the upcoming season, building upon the strong foundational legacy that Pujols contributed to during his time with the franchise.