It’s Almost Impossible to Hate on Albert Pujols

It’s Almost Impossible to Hate on Albert Pujols

He’s big, he’s loveable, and better yet, he’s incredible. That’s future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols. The legendary Cardinals first baseman just joined the 700 home run club, a group which features only three others. It could not have happened to a better individual. He’s just that guy.

As a kid growing up a Dodger fan, Pujols was a monster for St. Louis. Every year it seemed like he’d hit something like 45 home runs and 120 runs batted in with a .320 batting average. Of course, everyone worshipped him in little league and pickup whiffle ball games. Everyone wanted to be Albert Pujols.

Often times as an Angel, it was hard to see him battle through those injuries. They resulted in subpar numbers that no one in baseball was accustomed to seeing from Pujols. The team finally let him go and then my childhood dreams came true. The Dodgers swooped in and picked him up.

Seeing him smash home runs in a carefree bench environment was perhaps the most endearing thing in sports throughout 2021. Dodger fans called him Tio Alberto and would give the most loveable bear hugs after teammates would homer. This was when I came to appreciate Pujols more than I ever did.

It was difficult to see Tio head over back to St. Louis, but it felt right. He was back home where it all started with fellow longtime heroes in Adam Wainwright and Yadier Molina. Of course, naturally, Pujols is having his best year since his initial stint with the Cards.

As of Sept. 26, Pujols is slashing .264/.336/.526 with 21 home runs. His OPS+ is 145 which is quite literally his best since his 2011 campaign in which he finished fifth in MVP voting.

The night of Friday, Sept. 23 was the day he joined that elusive club with Barry Bonds, Hank Aaron, and Babe Ruth — all considered to be the greatest players of all time. I think it is fair to say Pujols could be in that category. After all, PED usage was never a conversation during his career.

When Pujols hit the 700th home run of his career, anyone who truly cares for the game and what it provides couldn’t help but feel so much pride. The whole baseball community came together and embraced him. He brings that energy to the game and the surroundings throughout his 22-year career.

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