Orioles Pursue Pujols for Managerial Role
The Baltimore Orioles are actively pursuing Albert Pujols for their managerial role, as they seek a new leader for their young team. Sources indicate that while the Orioles have not yet formally interviewed Pujols, they plan to do so in their search to replace Brandon Hyde, who was dismissed following a disappointing 2025 season that ended with 87 losses.
Current Managerial Situation
After Brandon Hyde’s firing on May 17, 2025, Tony Mansolino assumed the position of interim manager. The team is currently evaluating both internal and external candidates for the full-time managerial role. Notably, Mike Elias, the Orioles’ president of baseball operations, previously scouted for the St. Louis Cardinals during Pujols’s standout years.
Context of Pujols’s Interest
Pujols, now 45, has maintained a meaningful relationship with his former teammate Matt Holliday, whose son, Jackson Holliday, is a promising player for the Orioles. Pujols has also shown a keen interest in managing in Major League Baseball, having previously led a Dominican winter ball team to a championship.
Competitive Landscape for Pujols
Currently, the Los Angeles Angels remain Pujols’s most likely destination, as he has formally interviewed with them. However, the hiring process for the Angels may slow down due to ongoing legal matters involving the team’s ownership. Former All-Star outfielder Torii Hunter is also a candidate for the Angels’ managerial position.
Orioles’ Recent Performance
The Orioles experienced a relative rise in performance over the past few seasons, notably winning 101 games and securing the American League East title in 2023. They followed that success with a 91-win season in 2024 but faced elimination in the wild-card round. A poor start to the current season led to significant changes within the organization.
Why Choose the Orioles?
- Young core: The team boasts emerging talents like Gunnar Henderson, Adley Rutschman, Coby Mayo, and Samuel Basallo.
- Managerial opportunities: The Orioles are one of eight teams actively seeking managers.
- Successful past: The organization has shown potential for growth and success in recent years.
Albert Pujols’s interest in the managerial role signals a move towards revitalizing the Orioles as they strive to tap into their youthful potential. If he accepts a big league job, he may rescind his managerial role with the Dominican Republic in the upcoming World Baseball Classic.
