Former Los Angeles Angels and current St. Louis Cardinals first baseman, Albert Pujols, launched his 700th home run on Friday against the L.A. Dodgers.
Pujols hit home runs No. 699 and No. 700 just a few innings apart in an 11-0 win over the Dodgers. He becomes just the fourth player in the history of Major League Baseball to reach the rarified 700-club, a feat that might not be seen for quite some time.
In what is said to be his final season, Pujols reached the historic mark with games to spare. With Babe Ruth sitting at 714 all-time, ‘The Machine’ figures to park it at No. 4 on the all-time home run leaderboard.
Pujols spent 10 years as a member of the Angels, tallying 222 home runs while with the team in 1181 games. The team congratulated him on his achievement via social media.
Congratulations on joining the 700 Club, @PujolsFive! pic.twitter.com/buOpprnsA9
— Los Angeles Angels (@Angels) September 24, 2022
At 42 years of age, there isn’t much left for Pujols to accomplish in his Hall of Fame career, except maybe another World Series title. But the three-time MVP, Rookie of the Year, 11-time All-Star, six-time Silver Slugger, three-time Major League Player of the Year, and two-time World Series Champion, has nothing left to prove.
He’s done it all in a baseball career, and he will go down as one of the best to ever play in MLB.
Albert Pujols made final All-Star Game roster because of new rule
Albert Pujols was selected to the National League All-Star roster in what will be his final season in his storied 22-year career. His return to the St. Louis Cardinals after a decade with the Los Angeles Angels, and a stint with the L.A. Dodgers, put a bow on a legendary run for a generational player.
Commissioner Rob Manfred announced that he added both Pujols and Detroit Tigers slugger, Miguel Cabrera to the NL and American League teams as part of a new rule that gives him the ability to add players via special recognition.