Why Albert Pujols is managing Domincan Republic in the 2026 World Baseball Classic originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Albert Pujols is one of the best home run hitters in MLB history, and now, he will lead a World Baseball Classic contender into battle.
Advertisement
As the newly appointed manager of the Dominican Republic for the 2026 tournament, Pujols is looking to translate his Hall of Fame intuition into a championship for his home country. 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 followed it up by capturing the Caribbean Series crown.
Now tasked with managing a roster of superstars who grew up idolizing him — including Juan Soto, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Julio Rodríguez — Pujols is on a mission to bring the DR its first WBC gold since 2013.
Here’s why Pujols is the manager of the team for the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
Advertisement
MORE: Full World Baseball Classic rosters
Why is Albert Pujols coaching the Dominican Republic?
The Dominican Republic entered the 2026 cycle with a point to prove after a stunningly early exit in the 2023 tournament, where they failed to advance past pool play despite a roster loaded with All-Stars. Pujols, who represented the D.R. as a player in the inaugural 2006 Classic, accepted the role with the goal of restoring the “Kingdom of Baseball” to its former glory.
Advertisement
In his first professional season as a skipper, he led Leones del Escogido to a 2024-25 Dominican Winter League (LIDOM) championship, capped by a thrilling Game 7 victory. He then followed that up by guiding the Dominican Republic to a Caribbean Series title in February 2025.
Managing a roster that features the likes of Juan Soto, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Julio Rodríguez requires a leader who has “been there and done that.” As General Manager Nelson Cruz noted, having a leader of Pujols’ stature ensures the squad plays for the flag first.
MORE: Team USA’s World Baseball Classic history
Advertisement
Dominican Republic World Baseball Classic roster notable names
The Dominican Republic’s roster includes a number of players with significant MLB experience, as well as young talent still on its way to the majors. Here is a list of notable names who will be playing for Pujols in the World Baseball Classic.
Former MLB All-Star Nelson Cruz is also on the Dominican Republic’s staff as the team’s General Manager and advisor.