The appointment of Albert Pujols as manager of the team is not a simple marketing move. Pujols’ Major League career, marked by 700 home runs and multiple MVP titles, speaks for itself. But will that greatness as a player be enough to translate into success in the managerial field? It is a transition that few manage to make successfully. However, club vice president Eduardo Najri seems to have no doubts, noting that Pujols has the ability to take the Lions “to the promised land.”
Confidence in Pujols is not a simple vote of faith. The team has had one of the most active offseasons in its history, making 10 major trades and signing a significant number of free agents. According to Najri, all of this is aligned with one purpose: winning. In other words, the Chosen board has provided Pujols with the necessary tools to compete at the highest level. Now, the challenge is on the playing field.
The challenge of managing pressure
In Dominican winter baseball, being a manager of a team like the Lions is not an easy task. Fans have high expectations, and the club has a rich championship tradition. For Pujols, this represents an enormous responsibility. Not only will he be dealing with the pressure of immediate results, but also with the complexities of managing a team that must balance local talent with international reinforcements, while also dealing with the unpredictable dynamics of injuries and player losses.
However, in his first official appearance during the Lions Fan Fest, Pujols showed calm and confidence. They announced the starters for the first five games of the season, which shows they have a clear plan. The first match will be against the eternal rivals, the Tigres del Licey, with Elián Leyva as the star starter. Leyva will be followed by veterans such as Phillips Valdez and Eduardo Rivera, while foreigners Connor Thomas and Víctor Santos complete the starting rotation.
A team full of optimism and institutional support.
The commitment of the Chosen One board is evident. Key figures such as the club’s president, Luis Manuel Bonetti, and other members of the Board of Directors, were present during the Fan Fest event, demonstrating the institutional support that Pujols and the team in general have. In addition, the event allowed fans to share with their favorite players, participate in interactive activities and enjoy special promotions, which strengthens the relationship between the team and its fans.
The emotional factor also plays an important role. At this Fan Fest, Daniella María Bonarelli Bonetti was presented as godmother of the Chosen One for the 2024-2025 season, marking the continuity of a family tradition that has been linked to the club since its inception. Daniella is the fourth generation of a family directly related to one of the founders of the Esgido Baseball Club, Carlos Manuel Bonetti Burgos.
Extensive media coverage and eager fans.
Lions games will have extensive media coverage, with television broadcasts through Digital 15 and other platforms, as well as on radio on multiple stations throughout the country. This is a reflection of the interest that this team generates not only nationally, but also internationally, given the level of competition in the Dominican League.
The fans are more than ready for the start of the season. From ticket sales to enthusiasm at team events, pickers feel this could be their year. The history and tradition of the Chosen One come together in renewed hope with the arrival of Pujols.
Opinion and analysis: Is Pujols enough to win the championship?
Albert Pujols’ success as a coach will depend on several factors. Although it has the support of a committed board and unconditional fans, it will not be an easy road. The Leones del Esgido compete in an extremely competitive league, where teams like the Tigres del Licey, the Águilas Cibaeñas and the Gigantes del Cibao are also in search of glory.
Locker room management, strategic decision making and the ability to adapt to game situations will be key tests for Pujols. However, his status as a baseball legend could also be an advantage in inspiring his players, many of whom grew up admiring him.
Ultimately, while Pujols is a critical factor, the Chosen One’s success will depend on the ability of the team as a whole to stay healthy, cohesive and focused. History is on their side, but the immediate future depends on how the new leader can guide his team amid the pressure and expectations.
Thus, with the start of the season just around the corner, the Leones del Esgido begin their journey with a mix of optimism, ambition and faith that Albert Pujols is the key that will take them back to the top of Dominican baseball.
