La Russa: Pujols wouldn't be a good fit for White Sox
He is Jose Abreu's idol, and he's one of manager Tony La Russa's all-time favorite players.
Albert Pujols would certainly be welcome with open arms on the White Sox after his somewhat surprising release from the Los Angeles Angels Thursday, but that's not going to happen.
The Sox need outfield help with Eloy Jimenez (ruptured left pectoral tendon) and Luis Robert (right hip flexor) out with injuries, but the 41-year-old Pujols is a first baseman and designated hitter.
With Abreu on the roster at first and Yermin Mercedes set at DH, the White Sox don't need Pujols.
"We've got Jose and then you've got Yermin and even if Yermin gets a little less hot, it's a good to DH other guys to get them off their feet," La Russa said. "There's not a fit here, unfortunately."
La Russa managed Pujols in St. Louis from 2001-11, when the future Hall of Famer was one of the best hitters in baseball.
There is speculation Pujols returns to the Cardinals if he doesn't retire, and the Blue Jays and Rays are other potential landing spots.
"Talked to him (Friday) morning and we had a difficult day," La Russa said. "He really believes, and if he believes then I believe, that he's got game left. So I'd be very interested to see if a club sees the fit, because they'll get a very determined Albert."
In 24 games with the Angels this season, Pujols hit .198/.250/.372 with 5 home runs and 12 RBI.