Stunning Frontrunner Named for LA Angels Manager's Job

The Los Angeles Angels have a managerial opening after determining that neither Ron Washington nor his interim replacement this season, Ray Montgomery, will return. And according to insider Ken Rosenthal, a former Angel and future Hall of Famer, Albert Pujols is the leading contender for the job.

Albert Pujols could be returning to the Angels dugout, but as their manager per @Ken_Rosenthal pic.twitter.com/PbcISCvN20

— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) October 1, 2025

The 45-year-old was with the Angels for a decade after signing a 10-year, $240-million free agent contract before the 2012 season. He finished his career in 2022 with his other long-time team, the St. Louis Cardinals. 

But now Pujols could be headed back to the field in Anaheim in a new capacity. 

He is believed to be Angels owner Arte Moreno's leading choice for the job, per Rosenthal and others at The Athletic.

"One source close to the former slugger suggested the decision may be Pujols’ to make."

The three-time MVP and World Series winner has been contributing to the Angels on a "personal services contract" since his retirement. 

The superstar was even asked about being a manager in the big leagues one day, this past spring training. 

“Yeah. I think why not?” Pujols said in March. “I think if the opportunity is right one day, I think I’ll be ready for that.”

The opportunity just might be right in Anaheim right about now. We'll find out more in the days to come. 

Photo: © Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images