Los Angeles Angels: Albert Pujols somehow has a market
It had appeared as though the end had come for Albert Pujols. The Machine had broken down, his release from the Los Angeles Angels seemingly marking an ignoble end to what had been a Hall of Fame career. Although Pujols stated that he wanted to keep playing, it did not appear that he would have that chance.
Despite subpar numbers over the past four years, and mediocre at best production in 2020 and 2021, Pujols may get his wish. Three or four unnamed teams are reportedly interested in signing him for the rest of the year.
There are 3-4 teams in on free-agent first baseman Albert Pujols. The 41-year-old, recently released by the Los Angeles Angels, has indicated that he wants to continue playing.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) May 14, 2021
Los Angeles Angels first baseman Albert Pujols somehow has a market
It is somewhat remarkable that Pujols would have a market. He does not appear to have much left in the tank after producing a .198/.250/.372 batting line in his 92 plate appearances this season, drawing just three walks while striking out 13 times. The bat has slowed, and the contact is not nearly what it was in the past.
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But Pujols still has a bit of pop left in his bat. He did hit five homers, pulling away from Willie Mays for fifth on the all time list. In theory, he could be useful as a pinch hitter or in a part time role, something that the Angels asked him to embrace. However, he wants to be a full time player despite the evidence saying that he cannot do that any longer.
It is difficult to imagine that three or four major league teams would be willing to make that type of commitment to Pujols. He is 41 years old now with bad feet, struggling to stay healthy due to plantar fasciitis. His dropoff over the past four seasons has been steady without any signs that it will reverse.
Pujols could still draw some fans. He is an unquestioned Hall of Famer, and people would head to the ballpark to watch him play, even if he is on his last legs. The problem is that, even if his heart and head say that he can still play, his body and deteriorating skills say otherwise.
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Three or four teams are reportedly interested in former Los Angeles Angels first baseman Albert Pujols. It is hard to see a fit stateside for his services.