Hold onto your hats, baseball fans, because the managerial merry-go-round just took an unexpected twist! Albert Pujols, the legendary Hall of Fame first baseman, is reportedly in the running for not one, but two coveted managerial positions. While the Los Angeles Angels have been the frontrunners in this pursuit, a new contender has emerged: the Baltimore Orioles. According to ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez and Jeff Passan, the Orioles are set to interview Pujols for their managerial vacancy, adding another layer of intrigue to this offseason’s coaching carousel.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Is Pujols, a baseball icon with no prior MLB managerial experience, the right fit for a team like the Orioles, who are teeming with young talent but coming off a disappointing 2025 season? Or is this a case of a big name overshadowing more seasoned candidates, like interim manager Tony Mansolino, who steered the team to a 60-59 record after Brandon Hyde’s midseason dismissal?
Let’s rewind for a moment. The Orioles entered 2025 with high hopes after two consecutive postseason appearances, but a 15-28 start sealed Hyde’s fate. Despite this, the team’s future looks bright. With a roster boasting stars like Gunnar Henderson, Jackson Holliday, Adley Rutschman, and Jordan Westburg, the Orioles are a young squad with immense potential. Even their pitching staff, though a question mark, has shown promise with Trevor Rogers emerging as a reliable ace and Kyle Bradish flashing brilliance when healthy. And with a projected 2026 payroll of just $81 million—half of what they spent in 2025—Baltimore has the financial flexibility to make impactful moves in free agency.
And this is the part most people miss: 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, whose son, Jackson, is an Orioles infielder. Could these connections tip the scales in Baltimore’s favor?
Meanwhile, the Angels still appear to be the most likely landing spot for Pujols, who was considered the frontrunner for their managerial job earlier this month. However, no official offer has been reported, leaving the door open for the Orioles to make their case. Pujols, who managed the Dominican winter ball team Leones del Escogido last offseason and is set to lead the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic, would be stepping into his first affiliated MLB role if hired.
So, here’s the burning question: Is Albert Pujols the manager the Orioles need to unlock their potential, or is this a high-profile gamble that could backfire? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this debate is sure to spark some fiery opinions!
