Free agent Albert Pujols, Los Angeles Dodgers agree to major-league contract
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Future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols has a new home, agreeing to a major-league contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers on Saturday, according to a person with knowledge of the situation.
The person spoke to USA TODAY Sports on the condition of anonymity because the team had not yet announced the deal.
Pujols, 41, was designated for assignment by the Los Angeles Angels earlier in May and became a free agent after clearing waivers. Pujols was in the final year of a 10-year deal he signed with the Angels prior to the 2012 season and the team is still on the hook for his $30 million 2021 salary – while the Dodgers will only pay Pujols a prorated league minimum.
The Dodgers, who were hitting just .217 against left-handed pitchers this year, badly needed bench help and Pujols had three homers in 27 at-bats against lefties with an .878 OPS. Rookies Sheldon Neuse and D.J. Peters have been the primary right-handed hitters off the bench for the Dodgers.
Pujols was informed that he would not be an everyday player, but would get playing time as a pinch-hitter and occasional first baseman. The Dodgers could move first baseman Max Muncy to second base on the days Pujols plays first.
Pujols hit .198 with five home runs in 24 games with the Angels this year and is fifth all-time with 667 career homers.
Pujols won World Series titles with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2006 and 2011.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Albert Pujols, Dodgers agree on deal: Future Hall of Famer joins LA
