The Dodgers have a 5-0 lead over the Angels after Albert Pujols hits a two-run homer against his former team in the bottom half of the second inning. (0:41).LOS ANGELES -- Albert Pujols scored his first home run since being released in May by the Los Angeles Angels, leading to Sunday's 8-2 victory for the Los Angeles Dodgers.Pujols scored two runs in the second inning and served as a pinch-hitter for Justin Turner. Turner was left with left groin discomfort.Pujols took a moment to admire the drive from 418 feet, and then joined his teammates in a celebration. It was Pujols' third pinch-hit homer of his career. He also scored the ninth home run in a Dodgers uniform and the 676th of his long career.Pujols stated that it wasn't the first time he's hit a home run against the Angels. "To me, it's just a joy to be able contribute to the ballclub. I hope to win the series. It was not something I thought about too much. Although it can be viewed in a different light because it was a former team member, I don't view it that way.The 41-year old Pujols connected with rookie Reid Detmers, giving the Dodgers an impressive 5-0 lead.Before the series began, Pujols spoke to his former teammates and said that it was all about winning games.Pujols stated that it was the first time he'd seen these guys since my release. "I still have a great friendship with 95% of these guys."Cody Bellinger (the former National League MVP, who has struggled a lot this season), homered for the second consecutive game to help the World Series champions win two of three at Dodger Stadium, in the Freeway Series.Pujols won the day.Manager Dave Roberts of the Dodgers stated that it was great for him to be available when he needed it, since he wasn’t in today's starting lineup. "Player comes into the game. He is five hitters away and takes an at-bat. I am proud to be a part of this team. He's happy to play against a former team and help the Dodgers win a game.
