St. Louis Cardinals legend Albert Pujols was a legacy selection to the National League All-Star Team. At the Home Run Derby, his undeniable impact on the game was honored in a very excellent way.
The 42-year-old future Hall of Famer competed in the Derby. He took on Philadelphia Phillies star Kyle Schwarber in the first round. Batting first, Pujols hit 10 home runs in the allotted three minutes and earned an extra minute of swings.
Before he took his cuts again, however, all the players on the field surrounded the future Hall of Famer in a show of love and respect.
All the players gather around Albert Pujols in his last Home Run Derby. What a moment đź‘Źpic.twitter.com/7plAkvwCDx
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPointsApp) July 19, 2022
Pujols hit three more home runs during his extra minute. They needed an extra minute after Schwarber tied Pujols. The Cardinals legend smashed seven home runs in that minute, bringing his total to 20. He would eventually win the round.
In the second round, Pujols hit 12 home runs in his allotted three minutes, but the Cardinals legend did not earn an extra minute. Washington Nationals star Juan Soto defeated Pujols, ending his chances of winning it all.
It will be the final All-Star experience for the 42-year-old in the MLB. Upon signing with the Cardinals in the offseason, Pujols told reporters that 2022 was his final season in the big leagues.
“This is it for me,” Pujols said. “This is my last round.”
Pujols called his selection to the All-Star Game a special moment for him. And it undoubtedly has been special, given his performance in the derby.
”It’s pretty special to be there with the best of the game in your final year. I was there when Tony Gwynn and Cal Ripken were there 2001, their last year. … It’s pretty unique,” Pujols said.
Follow Us
Subscribe