In the wake of the Mets’ decision to fire Carlos Mendoza, the New York Daily News’ John Harper reported that Albert Pujols has made it known in recent weeks to those close to him that he’d “very much want” the club’s managerial job should it come open. Harper added that Pujols is close with Juan Soto, which could potentially work in his favor if he’s viewed as a candidate for the opening once the offseason arrives.
Pujols has served as a special assistant to both the Los Angeles Angels and commissioner Rob Manfred since retiring following the 2022 campaign. He also helped lead the Leones del Escogido of the Dominican Professional Baseball League (LIDOM) to a Serie Final championship as their manager in the 2024-25 season as well as a Caribbean Series title in 2025.
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The 46-year-old has been serving as the president of baseball operations for the LIDOM’s Estrellas Orientales this year and was also the Dominican Republic’s manager at the 2026 World Baseball Classic, where they lost to Team USA in the semifinals. Pujols interviewed for the Angels’ managerial job last offseason, though it ultimately went to Kurt Suzuki.
One of the best right-handed hitters in MLB history, Pujols ended his 22-year big league career with 703 home runs, 2,218 RBIs and a slash line of .296/.374/.544.
It’s not a guarantee that he’ll emerge as a candidate for the Mets once they begin their formal search. The fact that Pujols has managerial experience and has a connection with Soto can’t be overlooked, however.
