The Los Angeles Angels designated veteran first baseman Albert Pujols for assignment on Thursday, the team announced. A source confirmed to The Athletic‘s Fabian Ardaya that Pujols would be released.
“The Angels Organization proudly signed Albert Pujols in 2011, and are honored that he has worn an Angels jersey for nearly half of his Hall-of-Fame Career. Albert’s historical accomplishments, both on and off the field, serve as an inspiration to athletes everywhere, and his actions define what it means to be a true Superstar,” Angels owner Arte Moreno said in a statement. “Since his Rookie of the Year Season in 2001, Albert and his wife Deidre have generously given their time and resources to countless charities throughout the world. We are thankful to the entire Pujols Family.”
Pujols, 41, is in the final season of a 10-year, $240 million contract he signed with the Angels in free agency in 2011. He has earned just one All-Star appearance with Los Angeles, compared to nine in his first 11 major-league seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals. This season, he is slashing .198/.250/.372 in 92 plate appearances.
Pujols helped lead the Cardinals to two World Series titles (2006 and 2011) after the club drafted him in 1999. During his time in St. Louis, he batted .328 with 445 homers, adding three National League MVP awards and two Gold Gloves to his resume. He ranks fifth in major-league history with 667 career home runs.
