Hold onto your hats, baseball fans, because the managerial carousel just got a whole lot more intriguing! Albert Pujols, the legendary Hall of Fame first baseman, is reportedly in the running for not one, but two MLB managerial positions. Yes, you heard that right—the Angels aren’t the only team eyeing Pujols’ leadership skills. According to Alden Gonzalez and Jeff Passan of ESPN, the Baltimore Orioles are set to interview Pujols for their vacant managerial role. But here’s where it gets controversial: could Pujols, a legend on the field, seamlessly transition into the dugout? And this is the part most people miss—his potential appointment could hinge on more than just his resume, including some surprising connections to the Orioles organization.
Let’s rewind for a moment. The Orioles’ managerial spot opened up after Brandon Hyde was let go in May following a disappointing 15-28 start. Hyde, who had steered the team from the depths of the American League to contender status in the NL East, even earned AL Manager of the Year honors in 2023. Yet, despite his achievements, the Orioles decided it was time for a change. Interim manager Tony Mansolino stepped in and led the team to a respectable 60-59 record, but the search for a permanent leader continues—and Pujols is now in the mix.
This development comes hot on the heels of reports that Pujols was closing in on the Angels’ managerial job. Earlier in October, he was considered the frontrunner for that position, though no official offer has been announced. Gonzalez and Passan suggest that Los Angeles remains the most likely destination for Pujols, but Baltimore’s interest adds an unexpected twist to the narrative. Is Pujols a better fit for the Angels’ rebuild or the Orioles’ young, talent-laden roster? That’s a question that’s sure to spark debate among fans.
Speaking of the Orioles’ roster, it’s hard not to get excited about their future. Despite a lackluster 2025 season, the team is brimming with young talent. Stars like Gunnar Henderson, Jackson Holliday, Adley Rutschman, and Jordan Westburg have already made their mark, while prospects like Colton Cowser, Samuel Basallo, and Coby Mayo are knocking on the door. The pitching staff remains a question mark, but Trevor Rogers has emerged as a potential ace, and Kyle Bradish has shown promise when healthy. With an estimated payroll of just $81 million for next season—half of what they spent in 2025—the Orioles have the financial flexibility to make impactful moves in free agency. Could Pujols be the missing piece to turn this young core into a championship contender?
But here’s an angle that’s often overlooked: Pujols’ ties to St. Louis could make Baltimore an appealing destination. Orioles president of baseball operations Mike Elias was a Cardinals scout during Pujols’ playing days, and Pujols remains close with former teammate Matt Holliday—yes, the father of Orioles infielder Jackson Holliday. These connections could play a significant role in Pujols’ decision-making process. Is this a case of personal relationships influencing professional choices, or a strategic move by the Orioles to bring in a proven leader?
If Pujols does land an MLB managerial job, it would mark his first role in affiliated baseball. He managed Leones del Escogido, a Dominican winter league team, last offseason and is set to lead the Dominican Republic in the upcoming World Baseball Classic—though that would likely change if he secures a major-league position. Is Pujols ready for the challenges of managing at the highest level, or is he still finding his footing as a leader?
As the baseball world waits with bated breath, one thing is clear: Pujols’ potential move into the dugout is more than just a career shift—it’s a story of legacy, leadership, and the enduring impact of a legend. But here’s the real question: Can Albert Pujols replicate his on-field success as a manager, or will the transition prove more challenging than expected? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate you won’t want to miss!
