The Los Angeles Angels have gone 11 years since making the playoffs, the longest active playoff drought in all of Major League Baseball. But things might start to turn around with a change at the top of their coaching staff.
After manager Ron Washington left his role with the team to address some health issues at midseason, the Angels announced that they would be seeking a new full-time replacement for next year. And among the reported candidates was legendary former slugger Albert Pujols, who is looking to take on his first managerial role in the big leagues.
However, the team is reportedly ruling Pujols out for the job as it can’t reach an agreement with the former player on the specifics of a contract.
“Albert Pujols is no longer considered a candidate for Angels manager,” according to Sam Blum of The Athletic. “There had been mutual interest in hiring the former great, but the two sides could not get close on dollars and years, the source said.”
Pujols could still land a managing job for next season with several other teams looking to fill the role. There’s no doubt that he was one of the most successful and respected players during his career, which saw him make 11 All-Star games, earn three Most Valuable Player Awards and win six Silver Slugger Awards over 22 years for the St. Louis Cardinals, Angels and Los Angeles Dodgers.
Now that the Angels have ruled out bringing Pujols back as their manager, their search will continue.
“Another former Angel, Torii Hunter, remains a candidate, though he is not considered a slam dunk,” Blum added. “The team has also wanted to speak with ex-managers like Brandon Hyde and Rocco Baldelli, though it is unclear if there is any mutual interest.”
Wherever the Angels turn next, their incoming manager will have a tall task ahead after so many years of missing the playoffs.
More MLB: Blue Jays, Mariners Reveal Pitching Plans for Win-Or-Go-Home ALCS Game 7