ST. LOUIS — Former St. Louis Cardinals legend Albert Pujols will make his managerial debut with The Leones del Escogido in the Dominican Winter League (LIDOM).
The team made the announcement Thursday that Pujols would be the new leader for the 2024-25 season of the Professional Baseball League of the Dominican Republic. The season is set to begin in October.
“We are beyond excited for him to take the reins of the Lions. His figure represents this organization very well and his presence will impact our players and fans. He is very excited to begin his managerial career with Esído and we hope that he will lead us to win the championship,” said general manager Luis Rojas.
Pujols played in the LIDOM in 2021-22 following the Los Angeles Dodgers postseason run. He had a batting average of .246 with one homer and six RBIs.
He retired at the end of the 2022 season with the Cardinals after recording 703 home runs, 3,3384 hits, 2,218 RBIs, three National League MVP awards and two World Series in his career.
After retirement, he worked as an analyst on MLB Network and was hired as a special assistant to MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred.
Pujols will be eligible for the Baseball Hall of Fame for the first time in 2028.
Want more local sports delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for the 5 On Your Side Sports Plus newsletter.