Pujols made his MLB debut with the Cardinals in 2001, and his impact was immediate. In his rookie season, he batted .329 with 37 home runs and 130 RBIs, earning him the National League Rookie of the Year award. His performance helped the Cardinals reach the postseason, and it was clear that Pujols was a force to be reckoned with at the plate.
Throughout his tenure with the Cardinals, Pujols consistently demonstrated his exceptional hitting ability. He won three National League MVP awards in 2005, 2008, and 2009, and was a nine-time All-Star during his time in St. Louis. Pujols also played a crucial role in leading the Cardinals to two World Series titles in 2006 and 2011. His performance in the 2011 World Series was particularly memorable, as he hit three home runs in Game 3 against the Texas Rangers, joining Babe Ruth and Reggie Jackson as the only players to achieve this feat in a World Series game.
In addition to his power hitting, Pujols was known for his consistency and ability to hit for average. He achieved a batting average of over .300 in ten of his first eleven seasons and reached the 30-home run mark in each of those seasons. Pujols' discipline at the plate and keen eye for pitches made him a formidable opponent for any pitcher.
After the 2011 season, Pujols signed a 10-year contract with the Los Angeles Angels. While his performance with the Angels did not quite match the extraordinary heights of his Cardinals years, he still provided valuable contributions to the team. Pujols reached several career milestones during his time with the Angels, including hitting his 500th and 600th career home runs, as well as recording his 3,000th hit. These achievements further cemented his status as one of the all-time greats in baseball history.
Pujols' time with the Angels was marked by a transition from a dominant force to a veteran presence. Despite dealing with injuries and a decline in performance, he continued to be a respected figure in the clubhouse and a mentor to younger players. In 2021, Pujols was released by the Angels and subsequently signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he played a supporting role and provided depth to the roster.
Throughout his career, Pujols was known not only for his on-field achievements but also for his sportsmanship and leadership. He was a respected figure in the baseball community and was involved in numerous charitable endeavors, including the Pujols Family Foundation, which supports individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
Albert Pujols' career is a testament to his exceptional talent and work ethic.
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