In a rather shocking move, the Los Angeles Angels announced Albert Pujols has been designated for assignment on Thursday afternoon. It came after reports from Mark Feinsand of MLB.com and Audacy Sports MLB Insider Jon Heyman that the team would be immediately releasing Pujols.
Pujols is in the final year of a 10-year/$254 million contract that he signed with the Angels ahead of the 2012 season. Given that he's slashed just .198/.250/.372 and hasn't posted a positive fWAR since the 2016 season, this shouldn't be that shocking of a development on the surface.
Pujols spent his first 11 seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals, helping the Cardinals to win two World Series titles, earning nine of his 10 All-Star Game appearances there and winning three National League MVP awards. If this is it, Pujols will finish fifth in MLB history with 667 career home runs.
If no team claims Pujols off waivers, he'll be given his outright release and become a free agent. There were reports this off season that he would retire after the 2021 season, but there's been no confirmation.
Pujols was asking to be released if his playing time was going to be reduced by the Angels, according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today. He was hitting .198 with five home runs in 24 games this season.
After winning the 2011 World Series with St. Louis, Pujols signed a then-record 10-year, $240-million contract with the Angels.
The news has brought forth some calls for the Cardinals to sign Pujols. Among those in favor are NBA star and St. Louis native Bradley Beal:
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