Los Angeles Dodgers: Albert Pujols’ market depends on universal DH

Albert Pujols has his plans for the 2022 season. The Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman wants to continue his career, even playing in the Dominican Winter League this offseason to show that he has something left in the tank.

Just the fact that he is looking for a team for the upcoming season is a bit of a surprise. Pujols seemed to be done when he was released by the Angels, an aging slugger who just did not have anything left to offer. That perception changed when he signed with the Dodgers, as he showed he could still be a respectable power bat in the right circumstances.

Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Albert Pujols could have market if…

After floundering with the Angels in 2021, Pujols found life as a platoon first baseman and pinch hitter with the Dodgers. He posted a respectable .254/.299/.460 batting line in his 204 plate appearances, hitting 12 homers and three doubles. There is still a little pop left in that bat.

At this point, this is what Pujols has to offer – a platoon bat that can offer some pop against left handed pitching. He can still play a bit at first even with his foot issues, but is best suited to be a bat off the bench or a designated hitter.

Fortunately for Pujols, that may be enough. The designated hitter is expected to come to the National League for the 2022 season, opening a path for playing time. If that does happen, it is entirely possible that Pujols could find another major league opportunity.

But it is entirely dependent on the universal DH coming to the NL. Otherwise, it is difficult to imagine a team spending a roster spot on a player that is limited defensively and would best be used as a pinch hitter. In that situation, all Pujols could provide would be memories of the player he once was.

There may be a market for Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Albert Pujols. But it is entirely contingent on the universal DH coming to the majors.