Check out these top moments from Albert Pujols’ storied baseball career, which includes his legendary start with the Cardinals as well as his time with the Angels. (2:17).
Albert Pujols, the Los Angeles Dodgers' first baseman, is on track to fulfill his promise to play in the Dominican Professional Baseball League. He said that he will continue to play in the majors until he feels "unable to."
Pujols was officially introduced Friday to the Leones del Escogido as the newest player. He will be the Dominican Republic's first ever soccer player.
"I made a promise," Pujols said. "I promised I would play here before I retired. However, that does not mean I am going to retire. My time is not yet right to retire. Why should I retire just because someone says so? "I'm going to do it according to my terms, and when I feel that I can't continue playing."
Pujols was a 21-year-old major leaguer who played 85 games. He ended his season when the Atlanta Braves defeated the Dodgers to win the National League Championship Series. He stated that he has a game plan for the Dominican Professional Baseball League's (LIDOM) number of games he will play.
"I have an agreement signed with the team board. Pujols stated that he has a family and other commitments. "I will play whatever games my body allows, but I will also be supporting the team in any way it requires."
Pujols said: "When Albert Pujols becomes tired of playing baseball that's it. I won't go out and embarrass myself. To be able for a successful career, I have worked hard on my body. I know what I can do." "I know what I can do."
Santo Domingo's native Santo Domingo turns 42 in January. He was drafted by the Gigantes del Cibao, in the LIDOM in 2002, but he has never played winter baseball there, as the season ends in January.
"I have always wanted to play at Quisqueya Stadium since I was a kid. Pujols stated that it is a true dream come true.
When Pujols arrived at Leones Stadium for his presentation and his first practice, he was welcomed by his teammates as well as executives.
Jose Gomez Frias, Leones general manager, stated in a statement that "Bringing Pujols into the local baseball is an organization-wide effort to the good of our MLB and shows everyone's dedication in this centennial season of the team."
According to ESPN's Enrique Rojas, sources indicated that Pujols would wear the No. 5 is being retired by the team to honor Leones legend Junior Noboa. However, Noboa will allow Pujols wear it. Noboa was a former player for the Pittsburgh Pirates, Cleveland Indians, and other MLB teams. He is currently the Dominican Republic's baseball commissioner.
Pujols is a 10-time All-Star. His 679 career home runs rank fifth among active players and fifth all-time. He was a World Series champion with the Cardinals in 2006, and 2011, and has been a part of 10 All-Star teams.
