Albert Pujols out of consideration for Angels manager job

Albert Pujols, at one point believed to be the favorite to become the next Angels manager, is no longer in consideration for the job, a source with knowledge of the discussions confirmed on Monday.

The news of the breakdown in talks was first reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post, who cited differences relating to “coaches, resources and compensation.”

Pujols, who is bound for the Hall of Fame because of a playing career that included 10 seasons with the Angels, remains in consideration for managing jobs with the Padres and Baltimore Orioles.

He also still has seven years remaining on a personal services contract with the Angels that pays him $1 million a year. He has been spending some time in spring training and working with Angels prospects in the Dominican Republic. Pujols obviously would not continue in that role if he’s hired by another team to manage.

With Pujols apparently out of the picture, it’s unclear where the Angels managerial picture stands. Torii Hunter and Kurt Suzuki, who are both currently employed by the Angels as special assistants to general manager Perry Minasian, are likely candidates. Third base coach Bo Porter also told The Athletic that he’s interested in the job.

The Angels let Ron Washington go earlier this month, following his second season at the helm. He missed the second half of the season after undergoing a quadruple bypass operation. With bench coach Ray Montgomery serving as interim manager, the Angels finished 72-90, their 10th straight losing season.

The Angels are looking for their fifth full-time manager since Mike Scioscia stepped down following the 2018 season.