Why Albert Pujols is managing Domincan Republic in the 2026 World Baseball Classic initially appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Albert Pujols is certainly one of the finest dwelling run hitters in MLB historical past, and now, he’ll lead a World Baseball Classic contender into battle.
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As the newly appointed supervisor of the Dominican Republic for the 2026 event, Pujols is seeking to translate his Hall of Fame instinct right into a championship for his dwelling nation. His hiring comes on the heels of a dominant debut in the dugout. In early 2025, Pujols led Leones del Escogido to a Dominican Winter League title and adopted it up by capturing the Caribbean Series crown.
Now tasked with managing a roster of superstars who grew up idolizing him — together with Juan Soto, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Julio Rodríguez — Pujols is on a mission to convey the DR its first WBC gold since 2013.
Here’s why Pujols is the supervisor of the crew for the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
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MORE: Full World Baseball Classic rosters
Why is Albert Pujols teaching the Dominican Republic?
The Dominican Republic entered the 2026 cycle with some extent to show after a stunningly early exit in the 2023 event, the place they did not advance previous pool play regardless of a roster loaded with All-Stars. Pujols, who represented the D.R. as a participant in the inaugural 2006 Classic, accepted the position with the aim of restoring the “Kingdom of Baseball” to its former glory.
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In his first skilled season as a skipper, he led Leones del Escogido to a 2024-25 Dominican Winter League (LIDOM) championship, capped by an exciting Game 7 victory. He then adopted that up by guiding the Dominican Republic to a Caribbean Series title in February 2025.
Managing a roster that options the likes of Juan Soto, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Julio Rodríguez requires a frontrunner who has “been there and done that.” As General Manager Nelson Cruz famous, having a frontrunner of Pujols’ stature ensures the squad performs for the flag first.
MORE: Team USA’s World Baseball Classic history
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Dominican Republic World Baseball Classic roster notable names
The Dominican Republic’s roster consists of plenty of gamers with important MLB expertise, in addition to younger expertise nonetheless on its method to the majors. Here is a listing of notable names who will probably be enjoying for Pujols in the World Baseball Classic.
Former MLB All-Star Nelson Cruz is additionally on the Dominican Republic’s employees as the crew’s General Manager and advisor.
