Albert Pujol’s managerial career is off to a strong start, as he guided Leones de Escogido to the LIDOM title. Pujols did not intend to manage at the end of his playing career, but that has changed quickly as he has risen through the coaching ranks in the same way that former colleague Yadier Molina has.
Pujol’s main hurdle during his first LIDOM coaching gig was patience. The future Hall of Famer held players to his high standard, but failed to recognize that not everyone can be Albert Pujols.
“That’s been the biggest challenge,” Pujols remarked of his development becoming a patient manager. “I’ve seen some things here you wouldn’t believe.”
Pujols’ LIDOM success has led to speculation that he could manage the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic, as verified by the president of the DR Baseball Federation.
According to Juan Núñez, president of the Dominican Republic Baseball Federation, potential managers for the national team for the World Baseball Classic include Albert Pujols, who has won with the Leones del Escogido and the Caribbean Series, as well as Tony Peña, Fernando Tatis, Héctor Borg, and Gilbert Gómez.
Albert Pujols and Juan Soto could link up for the World Baseball Classic
Managing his native country would be a logical next step for Pujols. The Dominican Republic would be among the favorites to win the event, and if Pujols performs well, he would have minimal competition for an MLB managerial position. Even Pujols understands he’ll have his shot, whether it’s with the St. Louis Cardinals or somewhere.
“I feel that I can offer so much to players and to teams,” says Pujols. “It’s about growing and helping. This is not about me. It is about helping people and having a strong desire to do so. I have a deep love and passion for the game. This was my job; it was my life. That is what motivates me to do it. If the opportunity arises, why not?
If Pujols gets the position, he should have a full roster of MLB talents at his disposal. This includes Juan Soto, who apparently agreed to join the team for the 2026 event. Soto is perhaps the best Dominican player in a league brimming with exceptional talent from the island nation.
If Pujols can lead Leones to the LIDOM title, imagine what he can do with Soto and others? Managing star talent should only offer Pujols with more references for his future transition to Major League Baseball. It’s uncertain whether his first opportunity will come in St. Louis, where Oli Marmol is now managing an underperforming squad. If the timing works in Pujols’ favor, he should at least be interviewed. It is the least the Cardinals can do.
