Despite rumblings Albert Pujols would pursue a reunion with the St. Louis Cardinals or return to the American League, where he could serve as a designated hitter, the future Hall of Famer will instead sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers for the remainder of the 2021 season.
The decision came as a surprise for a multitude of reasons. Pujols asked for his release from the L.A. Angels due to being relegated to a part-time role, which he will now hold for the Dodgers.
There also is the factor of the Dodgers valuing strong defense and versatility, which Pujols is not a blueprint for.