Albert Pujols’ Potential Role as New York Mets Manager
Albert Pujols has expressed a strong desire to manage a Major League Baseball team. His journey has been interesting, with interviews for managerial roles with the Los Angeles Angels and San Diego Padres. Ultimately, Pujols took on a different role by managing the Dominican Republic team in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Unfortunately, the team lost to the United States, which went on to be the runner-up in the tournament.
Pujols is also actively involved in the Dominican Winter League, serving as the president of baseball operations for Estrellas Orientales. He had success in 2025, leading Leones del Escogido to a league championship in his first year as a professional manager.
The New York Mets have recently fired manager Carlos Mendoza due to a disappointing season. Pujols has shown interest in taking over this position, a prospect strengthened by his strong relationship with Mets star Juan Soto. The Mets opted to name Andy Green as their interim manager, giving president of baseball operations David Stearns time to find a long-term successor.
Some argue that Pujols might be a better fit for the Mets than he would have been for the Angels or Padres. Concerns were raised about Pujols potentially being a distraction for the Padres, who needed a low-profile manager. Additionally, the Padres faced an ownership change that complicated the situation.
In New York, these issues do not exist. Owner Steve Cohen supports the franchise with the sport’s largest payroll. Soto’s record-breaking $765 million contract has made him the highest-paid player in baseball. Pujols, familiar with such high expectations, seems an ideal fit.
Eric Chavez, a former coach, emphasized, “If your best players are Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor, you need a strong personality. You need a leader—somebody who walks into the room and commands respect and dignity. You just know they’re a leader.”
Pujols was considered for the Angels’ managerial role, but contract length issues led to Kurt Suzuki accepting the position. The Angels are struggling, currently in last place in the American League West. The Mets also face challenges, but with Cohen’s support, they have the potential for future improvement.
Interestingly, Carlos Beltran was anticipated by some to take up the interim manager position. His prior role with the Mets ended abruptly due to his involvement in the Astros’ sign-stealing scandal. Despite this, Beltran remains a valuable asset to the organization.
An outside voice might be what the Mets need. Pujols has more experience in managing than Beltran. His success in the Dominican Republic shows he can lead a team with high expectations. The Mets have room to improve, and Pujols has the credentials to guide them forward.