The St. Louis Cardinals heading into the 2025 MLB season will look quite different from the team fans may see in the future. John Mozeliak appears to be a lame duck, with Chaim Bloom already in the organization and likely to take full control in 2026. Manager Oli Marmol’s job security also seems uncertain. Additionally, the roster is expected to undergo significant changes.
There’s a lot that needs to be addressed—or at least will be attempted—in the coming years. Bloom’s tenure with the Red Sox saw a major teardown, but Boston now seems poised to benefit from his long-term plan, even if the results aren’t immediate. This situation also sparks questions about who will lead the Cardinals on the field if Marmol is ultimately replaced.
Many Cardinals fans have been hoping for franchise icons like Yadier Molina and Albert Pujols to return to the organization and help usher in a new era of St. Louis baseball. While nothing is set in stone, Pujols’ recent ventures and, more notably, his comments suggest that his involvement with the team could be more likely than ever.
Albert Pujols wins LIDOM title and gives Cardinals fans hope of return as manager
Albert Pujols has been managing the Leones del Escogido in the Dominican Winter League (LIDOM) this offseason, leading them to the Copa Banreservas title—the team he grew up cheering for. Reflecting on this achievement, Pujols’ remarks, as reported by ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez, suggested he’s ready to pursue bigger roles in the managerial ranks.
“I feel that I can offer so much to players and to teams,” Pujols said. “And it’s about growing and helping. It’s not about me. It’s about helping others, and having that passion. I have that love and that passion for the game. This was my job, this was my life. For me, that’s why I want to do it. If the opportunity comes, why not?”
The Cardinals seem like the most natural fit for Pujols. With Oli Marmol’s job security in question—and some even surprised he’s still managing in St. Louis—Pujols’ focus on player development aligns perfectly with the team’s future direction. If the franchise is heading toward a youth movement, who better to guide the next generation than a Cardinals legend and future Hall of Famer eager to mentor young talent?
There’s still plenty of time before Albert Pujols’ name officially enters the conversation for the Cardinals’ managerial role. However, if you’re a fan of the franchise, the 45-year-old’s recent success and reflective comments following his winter in LIDOM have every reason to spark excitement. His accomplishments and mindset hint at the potential for great things ahead, leaving Cardinals fans dreaming about what the future could hold with Pujols possibly leading the charge.