Albert Pujols said he is willing to accept whatever role the Dodgers give him as they try to win their second World Series in a row. The future Hall of Famer signed his contract with Los Angeles officially on Monday.
Pujols was placed in the lineup for Monday’s game against the D-backs as first baseman and fourth batter under manager Dave Roberts.
“They were very excited to have me here and that’s what led me to make the decision to come,” Pujols said of the Dodgers during the press conference where he was introduced. “I am excited to help this organization win another ring this year.”
The right-hander signed with the Dodgers after the Angels released him in the 10th and final season of the $ 253 million contract he signed with them in December 2011. And now that he joins the Dodgers, he has said he is not here. ready to talk about retirement.
“I feel like I still have some gas in the tank,” said 41-year-old Pujols.
Pujols said he would not comment on his plans until the end of the season.
Regarding his role with the Dodgers, Pujols said he is willing to do what the team asks of him.
“I told them that I am here to do whatever it takes. Pinch hitter, first base, whatever they want, ”said Pujols. “I think at the end of the day, I’m just excited to have the opportunity to wear this uniform.”
Pujols revealed that playing every day at first base was never his goal this season, so the playing time he will receive now was not the reason for choosing the Dodgers.
“I have been playing against this organization for many years. I can see how they do things, “said Pujols. “It was something I wanted to be a part of.”
Pujols said he’s not mad at the Angels for letting him go. He also doesn’t think he has anything to prove at this point in his career.
“I have nothing to prove to the Angels, or to anyone,” Pujols clarified. “I’m just going to be who I am and play baseball. I love this game. I enjoy this game ”.
The 41-year-old Pujols is the major league’s active leader in home runs (667), RBIs (2,112), runs scored (1,852) and games played (2,886), while ranking fourth among active players in OPS by by. life (.921). He was designated for assignment by the Angels on May 6 and finished waivers without being taken Thursday. He hit .198 with five home runs and 12 RBIs in 86 at-bats for the Angels in 2021 before being released. (GG) (MLB in Spanish)