Under Rob Thompson, the Philadelphia Phillies have enjoyed a strong run, posting a 346-251 regular-season record, making four postseason appearances, and going 21-17 in playoff games.
Despite this success, the last two postseasons have ended quickly, with the Phillies losing 3-1 in consecutive NLDS matchups. With Thompson advancing in age, a managerial change could be on the horizon. FanSided’s Jake Elman suggests that future Hall-of-Famer and World Baseball Classic manager Albert Pujols might be a top candidate.
“Pujols has previously been linked to MLB managerial roles, interviewing with both the Los Angeles Angels and San Diego Padres last offseason. Considering his credentials and WBC experience, it seems more a question of when rather than if he lands a big-league managerial position. Phillies manager Rob Thomson turns 63 this August and is under contract through 2027. But if this season falls short of expectations, a change could be on the table. Pujols would bring immense pressure, especially managing veterans like Bryce Harper, J.T. Realmuto, and Zack Wheeler, who are entering the later stages of their careers,” Elman wrote.
Currently, Pujols is leading the Dominican Republic to the semifinals of the WBC, where they will face the United States. Should he guide his team to a championship, interest from MLB clubs looking for a new manager is expected to surge.
Conversely, if the Phillies falter early in the season, a managerial overhaul may be their best path forward, with Pujols at the top of the shortlist.
Ideally, the Phillies start strong and avoid making changes. But if regression becomes evident, securing Pujols should be their priority.