La Russa on Pujols: “There is no space here”

Tony La Russa managed Albert Pujols from 2001 to 2011 for the Cardinals, witnessing one of the best periods for any player in Major League Baseball history.

But even with Pujols being designated for assignment by the Angels on Thursday, the current White Sox helmsman does not see possible a reunion with whom he once considered part of his family. Chicago needs help in center field, but it is sure to be the first baseman and designated hitter.

“Have [al cubano José Abreu] and then there is [el dominicano Yermín Mercedes] And even if Mercedes cools down a bit, the designated hitter position can be filled by other guys, ”La Russa said. “There is no room here, unfortunately.”

The possibility had been discussed because the Dominican left patrolman Eloy Jiménez will be setting aside between five and six months after surgery to repair the tendon of his left pectoral and the Cuban Luis Robert is away from baseball activities for 12-16 weeks, due to a strain Grade 3 flexor of your right hip. La Russa spoke to Pujols on Thursday and said the 41-year-old, who is due to be inducted on his first Hall of Fame ballot, wants to keep playing.

“He really believes – and if he believes, so do I – that he still has a game to contribute,” La Russa said. “It will be very interesting if a team takes it.”

“If someone acquires it, they will obtain a certain [Albert]… I hope it is in another league and different division, because I will never underestimate it ”.