Albert Pujols, a three-time MVP and fourth-all-time home run leader, is interviewing for the Houston Astros' manager job, according to The Athletic. He will be interviewed by new Houston general manager Randy Flores, who previously worked in the Cardinals' front office and played with Pujols in St. Louis.
Pujols' interview comes after the Astros ended their season with an 81-81 record. The team parted ways with general manager Dana Brown in August and did not renew manager Joe Espada’s contract following the season. Houston secured its eighth American League West title in 10 seasons but was eliminated in the wild-card round.
Pujols has pursued managerial roles in previous offseasons. He interviewed for openings with the Los Angeles Angels and San Diego Padres last offseason and reportedly had interest from the Baltimore Orioles. He also expressed interest in managing the New York Mets in June.
While he has not yet secured a major league managing position, Pujols has found success in dugout roles internationally. He led Leones del Escogido to the Dominican winter league championship and the Caribbean Series title in 2025. He also managed the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic this year, leading them to a third-place finish.
Other candidates for the Astros’ managerial position include Yankees bench coach Brad Ausmus and Rangers bench coach Luis Urueta, per The Athletic. Pujols, who will be eligible for the Hall of Fame in 2028, hit 703 career home runs during his playing career.