The Los Angeles Angels have released 41-year-old future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols in the last season of his ten-year, $240 million contract signed in 2011.
Pujols is being designated for assignment, which means he’s being removed from the team’s 40-man roster.
The decision comes after Pujols was reportedly upset to not be in the lineup last night against the Tampa Bay Rays, but the move was made by the front office over team manager Joe Maddon.
Not a classy move from the team organization, but they made the decision regardless.
Angels owner Arte Moreno released a statement regarding Pujols.
“The Angels Organization proudly signed Albert Pujols in 2011, and are honored that he has worn an Angels jersey for nearly half of his Hall-of-Fame Career. Albert’s historical accomplishments, both on and off the field, serve as an inspiration to athletes everywhere, and his actions define what it means to be a true Superstar. Since his Rookie of the Year Season in 2001, Albert and his wife Deidre have generously given their time and resources to countless charities throughout the world. We are thankful to the entire Pujols Family.”
Pujols has made $339,210,741 in MLB contracts in 21 career seasons with just two teams being the Cardinals and Angels.
His list of career accomplishments support easily support his future Hall of Fame status:
- 10× All-Star (2001, 2003–2010, 2015)
- 2× World Series champion (2006, 2011)
- 3× NL MVP (2005, 2008, 2009)
- NL Rookie of the Year (2001)
- NLCS MVP (2004)
- 2× Gold Glove Award (2006, 2010)
- 5× Fielding Bible Award (2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011)
- 6× Silver Slugger Award (2001, 2003, 2004, 2008–2010)
- 2× Hank Aaron Award (2003, 2009)
- Roberto Clemente Award (2008)
- NL batting champion (2003)
- 2× NL home run leader (2009, 2010)
- NL RBI leader (2010)
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Categories: MLB