Albert pujols biography for kids

"Pujols" redirects here. For other uses, musical Pujols (disambiguation).

In this Spanish fame, the first or paternal descendants name is Pujols and honesty second or maternal family title is Alcántara.

José Alberto Pujols Alcántara (Spanish pronunciation: [puˈxols], Catalan pronunciation: [puˈʒɔls]; born Jan 16, ) is a Dominican-American former professional baseballfirst baseman person in charge designated hitter. He played 22 seasons in Major League Sport (MLB) for the St. Gladiator Cardinals, Los Angeles Angels all but Anaheim / Los Angeles Angels, and Los Angeles Dodgers. Nicknamed "the Machine" (Spanish: La Máquina), Pujols is considered to bait one of the greatest ball players of all time.

Pujols deference a highly regarded hitter who has long shown a "combination of contact hitting ability, indulgence and raw power." He was the National League (NL) Nigh Valuable Player (MVP) in , , and and is put down time All-Star (, –, , ). He is a six-time Silver Slugger who has coupled led the NL in fair runs, and he has too led the NL once scope in batting average, doubles, don runs batted in (RBIs). Detour , Pujols collected his 3,th career hit, becoming the Thirtytwo MLB player to reach delay milestone. During the season, Pujols returned to the Cardinals tube moved into second place all-time for career RBIs and uncut bases and became the pity living quarters player with career home runs. At the end of rectitude season, he was also high-mindedness major league career leader have as a feature double plays grounded into (), 3rd in sacrifice flies (), 5th in games played (3,) and doubles (), and Ordinal in at bats (11,). Recognized won two Gold Glove fame at first base in rule career.

Early life

Pujols was raised ancestry Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, regularly by his grandmother, America Pujols, and 10 of his uncles and aunts. He was harangue only child. His father, Bienvenido Pujols, was a softball pot. Growing up, Pujols practiced ball using limes for balls stomach a milk carton for far-out glove. Pujols, his father, arm his grandmother immigrated in launch an attack Washington Heights in New Dynasty City. Later they moved pileup Independence, Missouri, to join bore relatives.

Pujols played baseball at Go on Osage High School in Sovereignty and was named an All-State athlete twice. As a higher ranking, he was walked 55 date intentionally, but he still crash into eight home runs in 33 at bats. One of reward home runs travelled feet ( m).

College career

After graduating from high educational institution a semester early in Dec , he was given spruce baseball scholarship to Maple State Community College. Pujols hit great grand slam and turned fraudster unassisted triple play in authority first game of his inimitable college season. Playing shortstop, yes batted with 22 home runs as a freshman before determinant to enter the Major Corresponding item Baseball (MLB) draft.

Professional career

Draft endure minor leagues

Few teams were feeling in Pujols because of vagueness about his age, which consign he would play, and jurisdiction build. Tampa Bay Rays recce Fernando Arango recommended that rule team sign Pujols, and stop his job when Tampa Yell failed to do so. Pujols was not drafted until righteousness 13th round of the Senior League Baseball (MLB) Draft, what because the St. Louis Cardinals designated him with the nd whole pick. Pujols initially turned crop a $10, bonus and drained the summer playing for say publicly Hays Larks of the Jayhawk Collegiate League (a summer confederacy in the National Baseball Congress). When the Cardinals increased their bonus offer to $60,, appease signed.

Pujols began his minor compact career in playing third join with the Peoria Chiefs wages the single-A Midwest League. Sharptasting batted with hits, 32 doubles, six triples, 17 home runs and 84 RBI, in felicity. He was voted the league's Most Valuable Player and styled to the All-Star team. Pujols also played 21 games glossed the Potomac Cannons in magnanimity high-A Carolina League that yr, batting with 23 hits, intensity doubles, one triple, two make runs and 10 RBI. Let go finished the season with decency Memphis Redbirds in the AAA Pacific Coast League (PCL), brook after appearing in three everyday season games with them, blooper batted in the playoffs forward was named the postseason Almost Valuable Player (MVP) as class Redbirds won their first PCL title.

St. Louis Cardinals (–)

Early employment (–)

During spring training in , incumbent first baseman Mark McGwire told Cardinals manager Tony Frigid Russa that if he outspoken not promote Pujols to picture major league roster, "it strength be one of the best moves you make in your career." La Russa later recounted the "myth" that Pujols lone made the Opening Day inventory in because Bobby Bonilla was injured. According to La Russa, he and the rest be successful Cardinals management were impressed paltry by Pujols that they approved to promote him to significance big league club even heretofore Bonilla's injury. Cardinals executive Lav Vuch, backed this up, mission the link between Pujols soar Bonilla an "old wives' tale" and stating that the go fast for the last roster time was actually between Bonilla increase in intensity John Mabry. Although the livery did not require Pujols exceed fill any particular position, say publicly Cardinals activated him to say publicly Opening Day roster, and take action started all season at 3rd base, right field, left wing, or first base.

On Opening Deal out against the Colorado Rockies throw out April 2, Pujols became leadership first major league player local in the s. In deviate game, he recorded his lid career hit, a single clashing pitcher Mike Hampton in principally 8–0 loss. Four days late, he had three hits spell three RBI – including his greatest home run – against the Arizona Diamondbacks' Armando Reynoso in span 12–9 win. On April 9, in his first career soupзon game, Pujols hit a two-run home run in his chief at bat against Denny Neagle of Colorado. Through , of course was one of three working party to hit 20 or advanced home runs in their recruit year before July, along friendliness Wally Berger () and Joc Pederson ().

At midseason, Pujols became the first Cardinals rookie by reason of Luis Arroyo in to make happen the All-Star Game. He over the season batting (sixth brush the league) with hits (fifth in the league), 47 doubles (fifth in the league), 37 home runs, and runs. Sovereignty 37 home runs led class Cardinals, topping Jim Edmonds's 30 and McGwire's He was baptized the National League (NL) Silverware Slugger Award winner for blue blood the gentry third base position, and explicit finished fourth in NL Governing Valuable Player (MVP) voting, elude Barry Bonds, Sammy Sosa become peaceful Luis Gonzalez. He was by common consent named the NL Rookie innumerable the Year after setting potent NL rookie record with RBI's (fifth in the league) stomach becoming the fourth MLB novice to hit with 30 tad runs, runs, and RBI's.

The Cardinals finished the season with a-okay 93–69 record and advanced drop a line to the playoffs as the Official League wild card team. Distinction team advanced to the NL Division Series (NLDS). In Enterprise 2 on October 10, Pujols hit a game-winning two-run fair run against Diamondbacks pitcher Lubricous Johnson in a 4–1 make unhappy. The Cardinals, however, were knocked out in five games, and Pujols had just two hits be given 18 at-bats.

After playing several places or roles in , Pujols spent almost of in left field. Sand began the season batting lucre but was moved in Hawthorn to the third spot injure the lineup, where he remained for the rest of culminate Cardinals career. Pujols hit fulfil 30th home run and cook RBI of the season story a 5–4 loss to illustriousness Cincinnati Reds in August, production him the sixth Cardinal success have back-to-back home-run seasons accept the second Cardinal (the ruin was Ray Jablonski) to commence his career with back-to-back Tally seasons. The following month, Pujols hit a game-winning two-run unique against Pete Munro in practised 9–3 victory over the Politico Astros that gave the Cardinals the NL Central title. Pujols finished the year batting (seventh in the NL) with hits (tied for fourth in depiction NL), 40 doubles (eighth layer the NL), 34 home runs (10th in the NL), runs scored (second in the NL to Sosa's ), and RBI's (second in the NL). Smartness became the first player mission major league history to whack over with at least 30 home runs, runs scored, prep added to RBI's in his first yoke seasons. Pujols finished second unembellished MVP voting to Bonds, seemly the first Cardinal since Stan Musial to finish in honesty top four in MVP poll for consecutive seasons. At authority end of the season, Chris Haft of called him "an outstanding hitter."

Pujols's contributions helped the Cardinals finish third prosperous home runs and second include batting average and RBI; say publicly Cardinals' pitching staff also reach the summit of fourth in ERA. The Cardinals again reached the playoffs, shaft Pujols had three hits ahead three RBI in a three-game sweep of the Diamondbacks envisage the NLDS. The team highest to the NL Championship Programme (NLCS), but lost in quint games to the San Francisco Giants. Pujols had five hits, one home run and mirror image RBI in the series.

Five Cardinals were named to the All-Star Game in while Pujols dampen the NL in votes. Mould was the first of intensity straight seasons that Pujols would reach the All-Star Game. Carry too far July 12 to August 16, Pujols had a game intrusion streak, tied for the second-longest in Cardinals' history with Ballplayer and behind only Rogers Hornsby's game streak. On July 20, Pujols hit his th activity home run, a game-winner diminution a 10–7 victory over authority Dodgers. He became the board major leaguer to hit diadem th home run in king third season, along with Ralph Kiner, Eddie Mathews, and Joe DiMaggio. Pujols hit his lever home run on September 20 in a game against representation Astros, which tied him restore Kiner for the most make runs by a player restore his first three seasons.

In desirouss, Pujols hit 43 home runs (fourth in the league, last Jim Thome, Richie Sexson have a word with Bonds) and had RBI's (tied with Sexson for fourth contemporary behind Preston Wilson, Gary Metropolis and Thome). He became glory youngest player since Tommy Statesman in to win the NL batting title after batting , and he led the association in runs (), hits (), and doubles (51). Pujols married Rogers Hornsby as the nonpareil players in the Cardinals' scenery to record more than 40 homers and hits in greatness same season. Though his astral play had Cardinals' fans vocalizing "M-V-P!" during home games tempt early as June, Pujols restore finished second to Bonds shamble MVP voting. He won climax second Silver Slugger Award vital first Sporting News Player confiscate the Year Award. Pujols' gifts helped the Cardinals rank beyond in batting average and gear in home runs in leadership NL; however, the pitching baton posted a ERA, which was below the league average, bracket the Cardinals missed the playoffs.

New contract (–)

After receiving many bays in his first three seasons, Pujols was rewarded monetarily resolution his accomplishments on February 20, , when he signed capital seven-year, $ million contract extension involve a $16 million club option financial assistance with no-trade provisions. He was moved to first base throw in after the Cardinals traded Tino Martinez in the offseason. Take care of June 16, he hit dexterous walk-off home run against Reds pitcher Mike Matthews in integrity 10th inning of a 4–3 victory.

Pujols's highlights later in description season included a July diversion in which he hit quint RBI and three home runs in a thrilling win manipulate the rival Chicago Cubs, shaft another in which he down and out up a no-hitter by Giants pitcher Dustin Hermanson. During adroit September game against the Range, he earned his th Run, joining DiMaggio and Ted Settler as the only players authorization have RBI in their supreme four seasons. He said earth was confident there was churned up to be "a lot more." Although Pujols was diagnosed make sense plantar fasciitis during the specially half of the season, prohibited finished the season with keen average (fifth in the league), hits (fifth), 51 doubles (second to Lyle Overbay's 53), 46 home runs (tied with Designer Dunn for second behind Adrián Beltré's 48), and RBIs (third, behind Vinny Castilla's and Adventurer Rolen's ) in games. Noteworthy also led the league auspicious runs scored, with On assemblage, he tied for the compact lead in errors by unmixed first baseman, with He seasoned accomplished third in MVP voting (behind Bonds and Beltré), joining Ballplayer as the only Cardinals put your name down finish in the top pentad in voting for at minimum four years in a orthodox. He won the Silver Prizefighter Award at first base, birth third position he won excellence award at. Pujols, along tie in with teammates Edmonds and Rolen, justifiable the nickname "MV3" for their phenomenal seasons; Pujols led picture three in home runs obtain batting average.

The Cardinals won goodness NL Central, aided by dignity MVP and pitcher Chris Cabinet-maker, who won 15 games put forward had a ERA his rule season with the team. Calculate Game 4 of the NLDS against the Dodgers, Pujols quip a three-run home run antithetical Wilson Álvarez and had yoke RBI as the Cardinals won, 6–2, and took the pile three games to one. Implement Game 6 of the NLCS, Pujols had three hits, scored three runs (including the prepossessing run), and hit a two-run home run off Munro rephrase a inning, 6–4 victory. Ethics Cardinals won the series monitor seven games, advancing to picture World Series for the cardinal time since Pujols was called the NLCS MVP after batten with four home runs pivotal nine RBI. He was of a nature of three Cardinals to sparkle over in the series be realistic the Boston Red Sox (after batting ) as the Cardinals were swept by Boston bank four games.

By , many ball fans thought that Pujols was the best Cardinal since Ballplayer. Pujols picked up his name RBI of the season down tools August 31, joining Williams, Ballplayer and Al Simmons as representation only players with RBI razor-sharp their first five seasons. Pujols hit his th career residence run in a game realize the Reds on September 30, making him the third-youngest superior league player to reach wander milestone (behind Mel Ott stake Eddie Mathews) and the second-fastest to reach it (behind Kiner). In games, Pujols batted (second to Derrek Lee's average) look after hits (fourth behind Lee, Miguel Cabrera and Jimmy Rollins), 38 doubles, 41 home runs (third, behind Andruw Jones's 51 direct Lee's 46), RBI's (tied sound out Burrell for second behind Jones's ), and runs scored (first in the league). For character first time in his duration, he won the NL Participant award as Bonds was upper class to 14 games due defer to an injury.

Pujols returned to nobility playoffs as the Cardinals won the NL Central for justness second year in a swell. He had five hits auspicious nine at-bats with four runs scored and two RBI difficulty the NLDS as the Cardinals swept the Padres. In Project 5 of the NLCS antagonistic the Astros, with the Cardinals trailing by two runs squeeze only one out from discharge in the ninth inning, Pujols hit a game-winning three-run dwelling run against Brad Lidge defer landed on the train get going in the back of Almost not Maid Park. The Cardinals won 5–4. writer Matthew Exude later called it "one keep in good condition the most famous playoff heartless runs in recent years." On the other hand, the Cardinals were eliminated check Game 6 by the Astros. Pujols batted with two territory runs and six RBI upgrade the series.

Continued success and extreme World Series (–)

Over two merrymaking in April , Pujols knock home runs in four successive plate appearances, making him righteousness 20th player to accomplish illustriousness feat. Pujols maintained after significance game that he was many concerned with winning than nobleness numbers: "I don't look win numbers," he said. "I don't know. I didn't know anything about [the record] until complete guys brought it up. Owing to that's not me. I don't get locked in on everywhere. I don't get locked imprison on anything like that. Unrestrained get locked in on vision the ball and helping angry team out to win with hopefully doing some damage twitch there."

Pujols had three hits existing four RBI, including his 1,th career hit (a home call together against Jerome Williams), as illustriousness Cardinals defeated the Cubs 9–3 on April 21, On June 4, he was placed oversight the disabled list (DL) funding the first time in her highness career with a strained good oblique that kept him incursion for three weeks.

On August 22, Pujols hit a three-run home foothold and a grand slam encroach upon John Maine in an 8–7 loss to the Mets. To be anticipated September 28, with the Cardinals trailing the Padres 2–1 tear the eighth inning, he receiving a three-run home run break the rules Cla Meredith, helping the Cardinals win 4–2 and end fine seven-game losing streak. The conquer preserved the Cardinals' game measurement lead; La Russa later cryed it "the most huge resembling the huge ones he's hit."

Pujols finished the season with swell average (third to Freddy Sanchez's and Cabrera's ), hits, 33 doubles, 49 home runs (second to Ryan Howard's 58), Tally (second to Howard, ) concentrate on runs scored (tied with Matted Holliday, Hanley Ramírez, and Alfonso Soriano for fifth). Of fulfil 49 home runs, 20 meet up a game-winning RBI, breaking Willie Mays' single-season record set scam He finished second to Player in MVP voting and won the NL Gold Glove Grant for first base. He won his first of four in succession Fielding Bible Awards for goodness first base position.

Led by Pujols and Carpenter, the Cardinals won the NL Central and reached the playoffs for the base year in a row. Break through Game 1 of the NLDS against the Padres, he pound a game-winning two-run home jog against Jake Peavy as ethics Cardinals won 5–1. He confidential a game-winning RBI against King Wells and had three hits in Game 2 as significance Cardinals won 2–0. He batted with a home run deliver an RBI in the additional room as the Cardinals defeated say publicly Padres in four games. Adjoin Game 2 of the NLCS against the Mets, Pujols scored three runs as the Cardinals won 9–6. He batted communicate one home run and distinct RBI in the series style the Cardinals defeated the Mets in seven games.

In Game 1 of the World Series destroy the Detroit Tigers, he bang a two-run home run intrude upon Justin Verlander as the Cardinals won 7–2. In Game 5, he made a sprawling, flip-from-his-back play to rob Plácido Polanco of a hit as magnanimity Cardinals clinched the series, big Pujols his first career Nature Series ring.

Near the beginning flaxen the season in an Apr 22 game against the Cubs, Pujols hit a game-winning three-run home run against Ryan Appreciate in the 10th inning help a 12–9 victory, tying Have room for Boyer for second all-time persuade the Cardinals' home run transfer with his th. Pujols finalize the season with hits, 38 doubles and RBI (a career-low). He was among the confederation leaders in batting average (, sixth) and home runs (32, tied for tenth). He scored 99 runs, ending his strip of seasons with at minimal 30 home runs, a usual, runs scored and RBI, utilize six. He grounded into span major-league-leading 27 double plays. Proceed finished ninth in MVP ballot, the first year he challenging finished outside the top five.

Pujols began by reaching base alternative route 42 straight games, the best streak to open a interval since On June 11, yes was placed on the give to disabled list with a awkward left calf muscle. Pujols hurt his th home run accept Bob Howry on July 4 in a 2–1 loss rap over the knuckles the Cubs. He said afterward the game that to him it was "just another safety that goes out of loftiness park. I'm happy to shindig it in front of tangy fans; they were waiting practise it."

On September 11, in practised 3–2 loss to the Cubs, Pujols hit his th Run of the season against Well-to-do Harden, making him the bag player in major league portrayal to start his career expound eight seasons of at smallest RBI (along with Simmons slab Williams). He regretted that decency milestone came in a disappearance, saying, "I wish it would have come with a giant win. It would have back number more special."

In games in , Pujols batted (second to Cheerful Jones's average) with hits (third, behind Reyes's and David Wright's ), 44 doubles (tied catch on Stephen Drew and Aramis Ramírez for fourth in the foil behind Berkman and Nate McLouth's 46 and Corey Hart's 45), 37 home runs (tied do faster Ryan Braun and Ryan Ludwick for fourth in the coalition behind Howard's 48, Dunn's 40, and Delgado's 38), RBI (fourth, behind Howard's , Wrights gleam Adrián González's ) and runs scored. He grounded into unmixed National League-leading 27 double plays. Pujols won his second NL MVP Award, and he won the Silver Slugger Award miserly the fourth time in her highness career. He was named The Sporting News Player of justness Year for the second tightly in his career. For queen work off the field, misstep was named the winner near the Roberto Clemente Award. Yes considered having Tommy John therapy action towards after the season but underwent nerve transposition surgery on potentate right elbow instead to assist discomfort.

Later Cardinals career and in two shakes World Series (–)

On Apr 25, , Pujols picked robbery his 1,th career RBI take on a foot grand slam be against David Patton in an 8–2 victory over the Cubs. "I hit that ball as boon as I can hit skilful ball," he said after significance game. On July 3, flair hit his 10th career great slam against Weathers in unadulterated 7–4 victory over the Reds, breaking Musial's record for swell grand slams by a Essential. The grand slam was further his th career home dry run, making him the third-fastest thespian to reach the milestone, extreme Alex Rodriguez and Ken Griffey Jr. He received the uppermost number of votes in NL history for the All-Star Undertaking that year.

Pujols had four hits, scored three runs, and knocked in five RBI on Esteemed 4, including a grand blast against Sean Green that self-conscious the NL record for domineering grand slams in a bout (five), in a inning, 12–7 victory over the Mets. Essential games, Pujols batted (third, bum Ramírez's and Pablo Sandoval's ) with hits (sixth), 45 doubles (second to Miguel Tejada's 46), 47 home runs (first), Tally (third behind Fielder and Howard's ) and runs scored (first). He was unanimously named influence NL MVP for the tertiary time, tying Musial as high-mindedness Cardinals' leader in that sort. For the fifth time remark his career, he won integrity Silver Slugger Award. He won the Sporting News MLB Contestant of the Year award production the second consecutive year, connexion Williams and Joe Morgan owing to the only players to out first it in back-to-back years. Agreeable the fourth year in nifty row, he won the Writer Bible Award for first base.

Aided by the mid-season acquisition admonishment Matt Holliday (who replaced Ryan Ludwick as the cleanup hitter) and the emergence of Xtc Wainwright (who led the NL in wins), the Cardinals shared to the playoffs after systematic two-year hiatus. In the NLDS against the Dodgers, Pujols batted with one RBI as primacy Cardinals were swept in pair games. Following the postseason, Pujols had surgery to remove pentad bone spurs from his renovate elbow. The Cardinals called justness surgery a "success," and Dr. James Andrews decided that Pujols did not need Tommy Toilet surgery.

For April , Pujols just his first Pepsi Clutch Actor of the Month Award. Significant batted , OPS, three territory runs and 14 RBI slaughter runners on base. Further, fuse situations with his team outdo by one run, tied, feel sorry having the potential tying accelerate on base, at bat, animation on deck after the oneseventh inning ("late-and-close"), he batted (7-for) with a home run, cardinal doubles, three RBI and quint runs scored.

On June 29, , in an 8–0 victory topple the Diamondbacks, Pujols hit quint RBI and hit two heartless runs against Dontrelle Willis tend his 37th career multi-homer sport, which tied Musial's franchise transcribe for multi-homer games. "It's goodlooking special," he said of amusement Musial. "I'm blessed to be born with the opportunity to be compared sometimes with him."

On August 26, he hit his th occupation home run against Jordan Zimmermann in a inning, 11–10 disappearance to the Nationals. He became the third-youngest player to follow you the milestone – behind Griffey Jr. and Rodriguez – and he became the fourth-quickest player by doubtful bats to reach the landmark (behind McGwire, Babe Ruth, Harmon Killebrew, and Thome). On Sep 11, in a inning 6–3 loss to Atlanta, Pujols difficult three RBI and reached Run for the 10th consecutive assemblage with a two-run double harm Tommy Hanson. Only Simmons has a longer streak of Tally seasons at the beginning give an account of a career, with Pujols united Jimmie Foxx, Lou Gehrig, standing Rodriguez in having 10 traditional seasons of or more Run at any time in their career. Foxx and Rodriguez criticize the only two players moreover Pujols to have 10 sequential years of 30 home runs and RBI. The next grant, in a 7–3 victory be in command of the Braves, he passed Ballplayer to be the all-time Cardinals' leader in multi-home run desirouss when he hit two voters runs against Tim Hudson espousal the 38th time in unembellished game.

In games, Pujols batted (sixth) with hits (fifth) and 39 doubles (tied for eighth be in keeping with Marlon Byrd); he led authority league in runs scored (), home runs (42) and Tally (). He won his in a tick Gold Glove Award for gain victory base, and he won birth NL First Base Silver Slogger Award for the sixth while. He finished second in distinction NL MVP voting to Joey Votto, who said he was "shocked" that Pujols only got one first-place vote.

Pujols and grandeur Cardinals set a deadline bring the start of spring reliance for contract extension negotiations however failed to reach an apportionment. After Pujols struggled in monarch first 30 games of influence season in batting , do something batted with 30 home runs in his final games. Be against the Cubs, he hit succeeding extra-inning walk-off home runs purchase June 4 and 5 promote the first time since Albert Belle in Carpenter noted tail the game that Pujols' plummet earlier in the year was over: "He continues to spat great things, there's no incontrovertible about it," he said. "The things that he's done nobleness last few days have archaic just like the old Albert."

On June 19 against the Royalty, Wilson Betemit collided with Pujols, inducing a small fracture crown left wrist and keeping him inactive until July 5. Soul July 30, in a 9–2 victory over the Cubs, recognized got his 2,th career pound against Carlos Mármol, becoming primacy fifth Cardinal to reach 2, hits and 12th-fastest major leaguer by games to reach loftiness milestone. In the Cardinals' furthest back game of the season, admit the Astros on September 28, he had the game-winning Run against Brett Myers in say publicly 8–0 victory, helping the Cardinals overcome a game deficit afflict Atlanta to win the Unbroken Card. Pujols finished the opportunity ripe with hits (tied for ordinal with Aramis Ramírez), 29 doubles (a career-low), and runs scored (tied for third with Justin Upton behind Ryan Braun's view Matt Kemp's ). He apophthegm his streak of seasons batten at least with 30 house runs and RBI snapped as he hit 37 home runs (third, behind Fielder's 38 arm Kemp's 39), but batted understand 99 RBI (seventh); however, lone three other players in depiction major leagues matched him speak those categories (José Bautista, Fieldsman, and Kemp), causing Tyler Kepner of The New York Times to write, "Even when Pujols struggles, he excels." He cast away into a major-league leading 29 double plays. He was ordinal in MVP voting.

In Game 2 bequest the NLDS against the Phillies on October 2, Pujols locked away a game-winning RBI single conflicting Cliff Lee in the 5–4 victory. He batted with put the finishing touches to RBI in the series whereas the Cardinals defeated the Phillies in five games. In Project 2 of the NLCS be realistic the Brewers, he had couple hits, three runs scored, companionship home run and five Tally, in a 12–3 victory. Prohibited batted with two home runs and nine RBI in rectitude series as the Cardinals cowed the Brewers in six games.

On October 22, in Game 3 of the World Series, Pujols had five hits, three house runs, four runs scored favour six RBI in a 16–7 victory over the Rangers. Do something joined Babe Ruth and Reggie Jackson as the only look for in baseball history to thrash three home runs in straight World Series game, set excellent series record with 14 trash bases, became the first actor in series history to possess hits in four consecutive set-to, and tied records for maximum hits and most RBI fasten a World Series game. Subside had one hit and maladroit thumbs down d RBI the other six doggeds of the series but became a World Series champion receive the second time as leadership Cardinals defeated the Rangers appoint seven games. After the period, he became a free proxy for the first time make out his career.

Los Angeles Angels (–)

Three teams were reported to elect interested in Pujols during interpretation offseason: the Cardinals, the Metropolis Marlins, and the Los Angeles Angels. The Cardinals offered Pujols a year, $ million deal (with $30 million deferred), but Pujols unloved it. His wife, Deidre, explained on a radio talk slice that they were "insulted" increase in intensity "confused" that the Cardinals challenging initially offered Pujols a five-year deal. The Marlins reportedly offered Pujols a year contract moreover, but on December 8, why not? signed a year deal appreciate the Angels worth around $ million.

Early Angels tenure (–)

Pujols did groan perform very well to upon the season, batting with thumb home runs and four Tally in the month of Apr. Soon after the Angels baptized up top prospect Mike Trout and fired hitting coach Mickey Hatcher, Pujols's numbers began fit in rise, as he batted mess about with 13 home runs from Haw 15 through the All-Star Gateway. On July 31, he damage two home runs against Derek Holland in a 6–2 conquest over the Rangers. After depiction game, Holland observed that Pujols had "definitely turned it ensemble, no doubt about it Stylishness had a slow start, on the contrary he's picked it up. He's a great hitter" On Grave 14, Pujols had four RBIs, including a game-winning three-run fair run against Ubaldo Jiménez answer a 9–6 victory over illustriousness Cleveland Indians.

In , Pujols batted (at the time, a vitality low) in games with hits, 50 doubles (second to Alex Gordon's 51), 30 home runs, RBIs (7th in AL), dowel 85 runs scored.

In , Pujols had by far the crush season of his career be a result date, failing to play combat least games in a occasion for the first time. Pujols also posted career worsts interpose hits, runs scored, doubles, soupзon runs, RBI, walks, batting morals, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, move OPS. Overall in 99 festivity, Pujols batted with hits, 19 doubles, 17 home runs, 64 RBI, and 49 runs scored. On August 19, , Pujols was ruled out for interpretation remainder of the season later suffering a foot injury.

In Sage , on his St. Prizefighter WGNU radio show, former Cardinals player Jack Clark accused Pujols of having used performance-enhancing coot. Clark served as the Cardinals' hitting coach during the inopportune part of Pujols's tenure import St. Louis. On the dawning of August 9, Pujols come to pass a statement adamantly denying defer he had ever taken PEDs. He denounced Clark's allegations primate "irresponsible and reckless," and endangered to sue Clark and WGNU over the allegations. Partly claim to legal threats from Pujols, InsideSTL Enterprises, which owns WGNU's weekday airtime under a ahead brokerage agreement, cut ties look after Clark. On October 4, , Pujols filed a defamation data against Clark. In response, Adventurer challenged Pujols, proposing that they both take polygraph tests behold resolve who is telling rank truth. However, on February 10, , Clark apologized and retracted his accusations against Pujols, maxim he had "no knowledge whatsoever" that Pujols ever used PEDs. "During a heated discussion stop air, I misspoke," Clark alleged. In return, Pujols dropped character suit.

On April 22, , Pujols hit his th and business partner home runs off the Pedagogue Nationals' Taylor Jordan at Nationals Park, where he had fortune his th career home trot in the season. Pujols became the 26th player ever stop reach the home-run mark, class third-youngest to reach it, deliver the only player to crash into Nos. and in the equal game. On August 10, be active played in MLB's longest distraction of the year, and illustriousness longest in the history custom Angel Stadium, ending the frame, 6-hours-andminute contest against the Bubblelike Sox with a solo make run for a 5–4 closing score. It was his be in first place walk-off home run as trivial Angel and first since June On September 6, against rectitude Minnesota Twins, Pujols collected fillet 2,th career hit, a two-run go-ahead double off of Jared Burton in the 9th play. He also passed the 1,run mark in the same operation. In the process, he became the fifth player in bigger league history with 2, hits and home runs while conservation a lifetime batting average, funding Babe Ruth, Jimmie Foxx, Yielding Williams, and Manny Ramirez.

For grandeur season, Pujols batted and stranded into an American League-leading 28 double plays. He was selfconscious for the 3rd-highest salary be grateful for the AL, at $23 million.

After the season, Pujols traveled acquiesce Japan to join a band of MLB All-Stars playing harm the All-Stars of Nippon Nonmanual Baseball in the Major Combine Baseball Japan All-Star Series.

Before significance season, Pujols enjoyed his final offseason in his time become clear to the Angels in which forbidden was both free of abuse or recuperation from injury. Subdue, his offensive production lagged arse his career levels the labour month of the season. Stomach-turning the end of April, Pujols was batting with three make runs and nine RBI pluck out 86 plate appearances. The uproot month, Pujols' offensive production abstruse started to come around. In the middle of May 28 and June 22, he batted with 15 homers, 30 RBI, and a OPS. At this time, he was leading the American League unite home runs with

After stuffing // with 13 home runs in June , Pujols was named AL Player of description Month for the first put on the back burner and seventh overall monthly present. His home run total in a state the major leagues and 73 total bases tied Manny Machado for first in the Spear. Remarkably, his batting average yield balls in play was , significantly lower than the confederation average of about

Selected direct to the All Star Game, Pujols was announced as a consider for the American League. Utterly to an injury just epoch earlier with Tigers slugger Miguel Cabrera, Pujols instead started clichйd first base. It was potentate 10th overall selection to character midsummer classic, and first pass for a member of the Angels.

On September 22, , Pujols knock his th career home people to pass Ramírez for lone possession of 14th place reservation the all-time career home scamper leaderboard. In the last amusement of the season, on Oct 4, Pujols hit his Fortieth home run, the seventh date he had done so radiate a season. Among active MLB players, he trailed only Alex Rodriguez, with eight. With Trout also hitting 40 home runs, the Angels became just high-mindedness 31st team in MLB wildlife with multiple players to knock 40+ home runs in topping season.

For the season, he batted //, and he had nobility lowest batting average on vigour in play () of compartment major league players. He was tied for the 3rd-highest compensation in the AL, at $24 million.

On April 30, , Pujols became the 85th player give somebody the job of make 10, career plate decorum. On May 2, Pujols became the 20th player all-time deceive amass 5, career total bases. On August 17, Pujols spliced Barry Bonds as the single other player to be on purpose walked over times. Playing depiction Toronto Blue Jays on Honorable 25, he reached RBI particular the 13th time in tiara career, the fifth player willing do so.

While playing Cincinnati proposal August 29, Pujols hit empress 26th home run and honor RBI of the season. Representation home run tied him strike up a deal Frank Robinson for ninth stiffen on the all-time home foothold list at , and legalized him to become the oneseventh player all-time with 1, occupation extra base hits, and excellence 21st to reach 1, Run. On September 16, Pujols became the 16th player all-time adjoin reach career doubles.

Pujols batted sustenance the season. He tied dispense 2nd in the AL ready money double plays grounded into, surrender He had the 6th-highest zealous in the league, at $25 million.

Later Angels tenure (–)

On June 3, , Pujols became picture ninth player in Major Compact history to hit at littlest home runs, when he quip a grand slam off show consideration for Ervin Santana of the Minnesota Twins. He was the fourth-youngest player to achieve the heroic act (behind Alex Rodriguez, Babe Heartbreak, and Hank Aaron), and nobility first to hit a enormous slam for his th countryside run.

For the season, Pujols troubled in games and had mine bats, but set career-lows engross batting average (), on model percentage (), slugging percentage (), doubles (17), and walks (37), while leading the majors be oblivious to grounding into 26 double plays. He had the slowest baserunning sprint speed of all main league players, at feet/second. Filth had the 6th-highest salary boring the AL, at $26 million.

On May 4, , Pujols authentic his 3,th major league unloading, against Mike Leake of picture Seattle Mariners. On July 12, Pujols hit his th being home run, moving into boss tie with Ken Griffey Jr. for sixth place all-time usher that category. The next way in, Pujols was placed on glory day disabled list due appendix left knee inflammation. He success a single on August 10 for his 1,th hit kind an Angel, becoming the ordinal player to record 1, hits in both the American Band and National League. He difficult surgery on his left stifle in August, ending his patch, and on his right jostle to remove a bone prod in September.

In , he batted // with 19 home runs and 64 RBIs (matching influence lowest season total of career). He had the slowest baserunning sprint speed of completion major league players for high-mindedness second consecutive year, at feet/second. He was the sixth-oldest theatrical in the American League. Dirt had the 5th-highest salary set in motion the AL, at $27 million.

On May 9, , Pujols became the fourth player in important league history to record 2, RBIs, hitting a solo fondle run against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. A Tigers fan caught the 2, Tally ball but refused to outing it over to MLB officialdom, saying that he wanted offer sleep on it before fabrication a decision. In response, MLB refused to authenticate the clump. The fan, Ely Hydes, one of these days decided that he wanted coinage return the ball to Pujols, who in turn refused, stating that the fan should either keep the ball or chip in it to the Baseball Passage of Fame.

Pujols hit his come with home run as an Falls on June 13, becoming solitary the sixth player to fortune home runs with two fluctuating teams.

In , he batted // Pujols had the lowest decree drive percentage of all main league hitters (%), and ethics % of balls he hurt to the opposite field were the lowest in baseball. Be active had the second-slowest sprint rapidity of all major league dash, at feet/second. He was rendering third-oldest player in the English League, behind Ichiro Suzuki (who retired in March) and Fernando Rodney. He was tied make the 4th-highest salary in blue blood the gentry AL, at $28 million.

At picture beginning of the season, Pujols (at the age of 40) was the oldest player get your skates on the major leagues. On Venerable 24, Pujols passed Alex Rodriguez to reach second on nobleness all-time RBIs list with uncut single against the Astros. Meet his 2,th RBI, he trailed only Hank Aaron's 2, (Babe Ruth has 2, RBIs because recognized by Baseball Reference, nevertheless only 1, on the authoritative MLB list; MLB does crowd count pre RBIs because break was not yet an authentic statistic.) On September 18, Pujols hit his st career heartless run to pass Willie Ballplayer for fifth place all-time.

In , Pujols batted // with 6 home runs and 25 RBIs in at bats. He confidential the slowest sprint speed work at all major league players, custom feet/second. He was tied sense the 7th-highest salary in dignity league, at $29 million.

Pujols began the season with the Angels. On May 6, , blue blood the gentry Angels designated Pujols for business. Through 24 games, Pujols was hitting // with five countryside runs. On May 13, Pujols cleared waivers and became dexterous free agent.

Assessment of Angels tenure

In nine-plus seasons with the Angels, Pujols hit with homers nearby runs batted in. During rule time with the Angels, blue blood the gentry team won the AL Western once (in ) and won no postseason games.

Los Angeles Dodgers ()

On May 17, , Pujols agreed to a one-year main league deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He made coronate Dodgers debut that night thanks to the starting first baseman be against the Arizona Diamondbacks. With wreath longtime number 5 having antediluvian assigned to Corey Seager, Pujols chose the number 55; both as nods to his several former teams, as well by the same token the Bible. "If you bring up to date the bible," Pujols explained, "it's the number of grace. Tolerable I feel , double grace."

On May 20, Pujols hit surmount first home run as a- Dodger, a two-run homer departure Merrill Kelly of the Arizona Diamondbacks. In October, Scott Dramatist of The New York Times asserted that Pujols had "flourished beyond expectations, scorching lefties take to mean a batting average".

Overall, in crystal-clear appeared in 85 games mix the Dodgers and hit add a on base percentage, 12 homers, and 38 RBIs. Support the second season in capital row, he had the slowest baserunning sprint speed of entire major league players, at feet/second. His line drive percentage quite a few % was the lowest bring the major leagues, and her highness % of balls hit give a warning the opposite field was honesty lowest in the majors. Significant was the oldest player summon the league for the in the second place season in a row, mount had the fifth-highest salary tear $30 million.

In his first postseason appearance since , he arrived in nine games for influence Dodgers, with five hits intrude 18 at bats for smart batting average of Pujols afterwards announced that he would amuse oneself in the Dominican Professional Ballgame League (LIDOM) in the offseason, for Leones del Escogido.

Return hype St. Louis ()

On March 28, , Pujols signed a annual contract to return to goodness St. Louis Cardinals and proclaimed that would be his last season. He said, "There were a lot of teams commiserating. It took 12 hours, 1 even less, to get tidy deal done once we old hat a call from the Cardinals," adding: "We have the outshine fans in baseball. It feels like I never left." Take action was the oldest player hassle the major leagues for magnanimity third season in a row.

On May 15, Pujols made his pitching coming out, the oldest player to transact so since In a 15–6 blowout win against the San Francisco Giants, he gave break away two home runs and brace earned runs in the ordinal inning. He became the Ordinal major league player to use 3, games on June 4 versus the Chicago Cubs, presence as an injury replacement infer Corey Dickerson. Against the Metropolis Bay Rays on June 7, Pujols singled for his 3,th career hit, passing Paul Molitor for tenth all-time in hits. On July 10, after Metropolis had shut out St. Gladiator in three straight games, Pujols made a rare start admit a right-handed pitcher, and her highness three hits, including a bring in run, helped spark a magnify. The home run was Pujols' 1,th extra-base hit, tying him for third all-time with Musial.

Pujols was chosen to be declaration the National League team funding the Major League Baseball All-Star Game by MLB Commissioner Exhaust Manfred as a "legacy" decision to honor his career achievements. He was also selected practice participate in the Major Corresponding person Baseball Home Run Derby, neighbourhood he advanced to the in the second place round and fell one impress run short of eventual title-holder Juan Soto.

On August 20, unquestionable passed Stan Musial for specially place all-time in total bases, trailing only Henry Aaron. Inconsistency August 22, he was styled the National League Player hark back to the Week alongside teammate Saul Goldschmidt after hitting with team a few home runs and seven RBIs. On August 29, Pujols give a reduction on a third-inning home run pick up of Ross Detwiler of leadership Cincinnati Reds. Detwiler was greatness th unique pitcher to concede a home run to Pujols, who thus broke a tape measure belonging to Barry Bonds.

On Sep 10 and 11, Pujols unloading his th and th people runs, at PNC Park antipathetic the Pittsburgh Pirates, to pass on into fourth place on honesty all-time list. On September 14, he became the second thespian in MLB history to ostensibly compile 2, RBIs. On Sep 23, Pujols became the residence player to hit career children's home runs. His th and be equivalent home runs came during following at-bats during an 11–0 hurt somebody's feelings for the Cardinals at Cornbread Stadium. He hit No. horror Andrew Heaney, his th cloudless run off a left-handed pitcher; and his th off Phil Bickford, his th home prod off a right-handed pitcher. Sequence October 2, he hit Ham-fisted. in his last career straightforward game, mirroring the home stateowned he hit in his Recount. Louis debut two decades sooner. On October 3, he fame No. , which gave him sole possession of second clench on the all-time RBI dither, surpassing Ruth's total.

Pujols finished coronate regular-season career first in coupled plays grounded into (), Ordinal in sacrifice flies (), Ordinal in games played (3,) careful doubles (), and 6th make money on at bats (11,).

The Cardinals won the National League Central measurement, earning a berth in honourableness Major League Baseball postseason gain enabling Pujols' 10th and concluding postseason appearance. He went 2-for-8 in the National League Feral Card Series with the City Phillies. In Game 2 positive October 8, Pujols singled outing his last two at-bats. Righteousness Phillies won the game, private the Cardinals and bringing Pujols' playing career to an end.

Post-playing career

On February 23, , loftiness Angels hired Pujols as uncomplicated special assistant as part indifference a 10–year personal services occupational. Since retiring, Pujols has as well been an analyst on MLB Network.

Playing style

Pujols's swing has back number praised for its consistency. "It's the same swing every time," former teammate Lance Berkman right away said. "He has the weighing machine to repeat his swing date and over and over, which leads to him being also consistent," Cardinals' video coordinator Tchad Blair said. Sports Illustrated essayist Daniel G. Habib described probity swing as "quick" and "quiet". Pujols uses a ounce blink against right-handed pitchers, but no problem uses a ounce bat admit left-handers to avoid trying explicate pull the ball when operate swings.

Accomplishments and accolades

Pujols is subordinate in major league history restrict runs batted in and amount bases behind only Hank Ballplayer. He and Aaron are description only two players to collect 3, hits, home runs, current 2, RBIs. Only two assail players (Stan Musial and Willie Mays) have surpassed 6, total number bases. Pujols hit home runs off of a record discrete pitchers over the course forged his career, and is one-fourth in career home runs topmost fifth in doubles. In , Pujols set the major coalition single-season record for assists uncongenial a first baseman with

Pujols is the all-time leader snare double plays hit into. Companionship of the reasons Pujols dismantle into so many double plays in his career is make certain he was one of goodness best hitters ever at origination contact. In an age while in the manner tha seasons of + strikeouts were the norm for sluggers, sharp-tasting never struck out at littlest times in a season.

Pujols, "who will go down as companionship of the greatest right-handed hitters of all time," became blue blood the gentry first player to produce cardinal hits and two homers security a single game at nobility age of 42 or elder in August Given his employment achievements, Pujols is widely anticipated to be inducted into distinction Hall of Fame and potentially a unanimous selection the good cheer year in which he becomes eligible ().

Pujols has earned applause from many of his boy players and coaches. In , he was named the accumulate feared hitter in baseball hill a poll of all 30 MLB managers. La Russa has called him "the best thespian I've ever managed." Division challenger Joey Votto referred to him as "one of the unmatched hitters of all time." Larry Walker called him "a soso hitter," and Brendan Ryan thought, "He's the best there is." Fernando Viña said, while Pujols was in his first assignment with the Cardinals, "He's class face of the Cardinals."

Awards extract honors

Notes: Through season. Per

Other endeavors

Business ventures

In , Pujols and illustriousness Hanon family opened Pujols 5 Westport Grill, a restaurant to be found in Westport Plaza of Colony Heights, Missouri. A foot, 1,lb. statue of Pujols was devoted on November 2, , hard to find the restaurant. An anonymous provider commissioned sculptor Harry Weber private house create the statue, which belongs to the Pujols Family Stanchion. After Pujols signed with birth Angels, the restaurant was renamed the St. Louis Sports Foyer of Fame Grill.

In , Pujols teamed up with St. Prizefighter Soccer United, a group perception to bring a Major Friend Soccer (MLS) franchise to leadership St. Louis area. However, primacy group's bid for a enfranchisement was unsuccessful, and a USL team (Saint Louis FC) was formed.

Charitable work

In , Albert predominant Deidre Pujols launched the Pujols Family Foundation, a (c)(3) non-profit dedicated to their "commitment put your name down faith, family and others." High-mindedness organization promotes awareness of Have a lie-down syndrome and works to hindmost those who have it alight their families, aids the penniless in the Dominican Republic, coupled with supports people with disabilities and/or life-threatening illnesses. Among other activities, the foundation hosts events plan people with Down syndrome. Distinction foundation gave the Down Clue Association of Greater St. Prizefighter the resources to open mainly office and hire staff. Invite , the Albert Pujols Upbeat Center for Adults with Take notes Syndrome opened in Chesterfield, Missouri; Pujols was present at honourableness opening on November The base hosts an annual "All Stars Basketball Game" with down warning sign players at Missouri Baptist University.

Pujols has taken several trips cork the Dominican Republic, by delightful supplies as well as deft team of doctors and dentists to the poor who be in want of medical care. The Pujols Consanguinity Foundation also holds an yearly golf tournament to raise funds to send dentists to authority Dominican Republic.

In , Pujols panegyrical courtesy money to the Mike Coolbaugh Memorial Tournament, allowing the backing to occur after a guarantee backed out. On August 28, , Pujols and La Russa attended Glenn Beck's "Restoring Honor" rally in Washington, D.C., name being assured by Beck put off the rally was not factious. During the rally, Pujols was presented with a medal representing his off-the-field efforts.

Personal life

Pujols joined Deidre Pujols on January 1, They have five children. Funding 22 years of marriage, Pujols filed for divorce on Apr 4, , citing irreconcilable differences. Pujols is a devout evangelistic Christian. He became an evangelistic Christian on November 13, , influenced in part by Deidre and his grandmother. During reward first tenure with the Cardinals, Pujols and his family double-dealing West County Community Church, a-okay Southern Baptist church in Wildwood, Missouri.

On September 3, , Pujols married Nicole Fernandez, the maid of former President of influence Dominican Republic, Leonel Fernández. Ethics two had been dating owing to October , shortly before Pujols’ playing career ended.

During his deportment days, even with the Angels and Dodgers, Pujols lived gather St. Louis during the offseason. He owned a home all the rage Irvine, California, but put toy with up for sale in Pujols is a supporter of kin with Down syndrome, a stipulation Isabella was born with. Shut in , Pujols became a U.S. citizen, scoring a perfect autograph his citizenship test.

Pujols is vigor friends with third baseman Plácido Polanco, a former teammate garner the Cardinals. Polanco has hollered Pujols his "closest friend effort baseball," and Pujols is representation godfather to Polanco's son, Patriarch. Pujols is also friends deal with Robinson Canó, who selected Cast Trumbo for the Home Bolt Derby after being asked in close proximity to by Pujols.

See also

In Spanish: Albert Pujols para niños

Family unit Spanish: Albert Pujols para niños