Albert Pujols enters the frame for the Houston Astros managerial vacancy
The Houston Astros are considering a move that could bridge legendary playing history with a new era of leadership. Future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols will interview for the team’s vacant managerial position this week, according to a report from USA TODAY Sports citing a person with direct knowledge of the matter.
While the Astros have not officially released a list of candidates, USA TODAY Sports reports that Pujols is among the names being considered alongside Brad Ausmus, the current New York Yankees bench coach. The move would represent a significant departure from traditional managerial appointments, as Pujols would become the first player in Major League history to manage after recording 700 home runs.
This potential hiring comes at a critical juncture for the Astros organization. New general manager Randy Flores, who was introduced via a press conference on Monday, expressed a desire for a swift resolution to the vacancy. During his introductory remarks, Flores addressed the rumors surrounding high-profile candidates by noting that tampering rules prevent him from discussing employees from other organizations. However, he emphasized his intent to rely on “network, experience and expertise” to guide the club forward.
For Pujols, the interview process marks a persistent pursuit of a second career in baseball. Since retiring following the 2022 season, he has actively sought leadership roles, including interviews with the Los Angeles Angels and San Diego Padres last year. He has also built a recent resume in international and regional play, managing the Dominican Republic to a third-place finish in the 2026 World Baseball Classic and leading Leones del Escogido to the 2025 Caribbean Series championship.
A reunion of former teammates and division rivals
Pujols would reunite with Flores, his former St. Louis Cardinals teammate from their 2006 World Series championship run.
The history between Pujols and the Houston franchise is also deeply rooted in postseason tension. Before the Astros transitioned to the American League West in 2013, they were fierce National League Central rivals with Pujols’ Cardinals. The two clubs met in the NL Championship Series in both 2004 and 2005. During that 2004 series, Pujols earned MVP honors by batting .500 with four home runs. In 2005, he hit a decisive ninth-inning home run in Game 5 to help the Cardinals stave off a Houston comeback.
Statistically, Pujols has a long-standing familiarity with the Houston roster and culture. According to USA TODAY Sports, his 1,265 career at-bats against the Astros represent the most he has faced against any single regular-season opponent.
The debate over playing experience versus dugout credentials
The prospect of hiring Pujols invites a debate common in modern baseball: does a legendary playing career translate to effective clubhouse management?
“I know I don’t have the experience as a manager, but 23 years in this game, you go through a lot. I’m talking about experience from baseball, being on the field and in the locker room… Old-school mentality can help young mentality.”
La Russa has praised Pujols’ preparation and mental acuity, suggesting that his discipline and high baseball IQ make him uniquely suited for the transition.
The timing of this search also reflects a trend in the league. As of November 2026, the Astros and the Los Angeles Angels are the only two teams currently facing managerial vacancies. This stands in stark contrast to the Seattle Mariners, who announced the hiring of Jason Kanzler on Monday, a move that has drawn attention due to Kanzler having no prior managerial experience at any level.
| Candidate/Context | Current Role/Status | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Albert Pujols | Retired Player / Angels Personal Services | Potential first 700-HR manager |
| Brad Ausmus | Yankees Bench Coach | Experienced MLB coach |
| Jason Kanzler | Mariners Manager (Hired Nov 4) | No prior managerial experience |
As the Astros move toward a decision, the focus remains on whether Pujols’ desire to “give back” to the game—a goal he expressed to USA TODAY Sports in 2025—will align with the needs of the franchise.
“For me, I’ve always been serious about everything that I do in this game,” Pujols said. “And now I’m serious about managing.”
