Albert Pujols is reportedly interviewing for the Houston Astros’ manager job, a reunion that would redefine his iconic history with the club, a history that includes him crushing 62 of his 703 career home runs against them. As we just barely got over the Brewers snagging their first-ever World Series title, the hot stove is already BLAZING, with free agency officially kicking off on November 2.
The Legend’s Wild Pivot: Pujols and the Astros
Seriously, Pujols for Astros manager? This is one of those storylines you can’t make up! The legendary slugger, a guy who won two World Series rings with the Cardinals and snagged three MVP awards, is reportedly sitting down for interviews in Houston. Talk about some serious history right there. We’re talking about the same Albert Pujols who famously smacked one of the most iconic home runs in postseason baseball against them, that absolute moonshot off Brad Lidge in Game 5 of the 2005 NLCS. The Astros still won that series in six games, but man, that dinger still echoes! He hit 62 of his career 703 homers against Houston, more than against any other team. Wild.
Now, he’s not just walking in cold. Pujols has been a special assistant for the Angels and even managed Leones del Escogido down in the Dominican Republic. He also led the Dominican Republic to a third-place finish at the World Baseball Classic earlier in 2026. MLB Network’s Jon Morosi reports that Brad Ausmus, a former Astros player and currently the Yankees’ bench coach, is also on Houston’s list for the job. And get this: the Astros just hired Randy Flores as their general manager. The source even mentions that a guy named Castro and Pujols were Cardinals teammates. This whole situation is just loaded with layers.
Rays Lock Down Ace, Nats Keep a Homegrown Talent
Meanwhile, other teams are making moves on the roster front. The Tampa Bay Rays just said “nope” to any trade rumors swirling around Drew Rasmussen, exercising his $20 million option for 2027. Despite all the whispers about that payday, The Tampa Bay Times confirms the Rays are keeping their ace, no interest in moving him right now. And why would they? Rasmussen was an absolute workhorse this year, proving his worth as a top-of-the-rotation starter. He posted an elite 16-5 record with a stellar 2.67 ERA across 172 innings pitched, playing a pivotal role in getting Tampa Bay to the World Series. Now, he’s gonna be a powerful tandem with Shane McClanahan and Griffin Jax. After losing in five games to the Brewers in the Series, you can bet the Rays are laser-focused on finishing the job in 2027.
Out in Washington, the Nationals locked down one of their own guys, too. They’ve signed center fielder Jacob Young to a four-year, $23 million extension, according to FanSided. That deal includes an $8 million team option on a fifth year, which is smart money. Young had a career year in 2026, hitting 10 home runs and driving in 50 RBIs, plus swiping 18 bases, all while putting up a .252/.318/.390 slash line. But let’s be real, this former seventh-round pick is known for his defense, an absolute vacuum in center field. He tallied 12 defensive runs saved in 2024 and an even better 13 defensive runs saved in 2025, not recording a single error in that latter season. The Nats finished last season 77-85, so securing Young is a solid piece for their future. Oh, and the Baltimore Orioles are apparently just “listening to all offers” as the offseason unfolds.
What’s Next on the Hot Stove
So, with free agency officially in full swing since November 2, these are just the first few sparks from the hot stove. We’re talking about big names like two-time Cy Young ace Tarik Skubal and Japanese slugger Teruaki Sato who are about to command top dollar. Keep your eyes glued, because if the early moves are this wild, the rest of this offseason is gonna be absolutely bonkers. Get ready for some serious roster building and strategic chess matches across the league!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Fox Sports.
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