Albert Pujols is one of the most remarkable players to ever take the field, and his achievements are legendary. Over the course of his storied career, Pujols has hit an astounding 667 home runs, placing him fifth on the all-time list of home run hitters. That begs the question: will Albert Pujols hit 700 home runs?
In this article, we’ll explore the factors that will determine whether or not Pujols can achieve this remarkable milestone. We’ll look at his current performance, his age, his health, and compare him to other home run hitters.
I. Pujols’ Current Performance
Albert Pujols has been remarkably consistent throughout his career, but at 39 years old, there are signs that his performance is beginning to decline. In 2019, Pujols hit .244 with 23 home runs, his lowest total since 2004. He also struck out at a much higher rate than he had in previous years.
Despite these signs of decline, Pujols has still been an effective hitter. In 2020, he hit .297 with nine home runs in just 42 games. If he can maintain this level of performance, he still has a chance to reach 700 home runs.
II. Pujols’ Age
At 39 years old, Pujols is no longer a young player. While players like Barry Bonds and Ken Griffey Jr. were able to maintain high home run totals into their 40s, most players begin to decline around this age. It’s unclear how much longer Pujols can remain an effective hitter, and whether he’ll be able to hit enough home runs to reach 700.
III. Pujols’ Health
Pujols has been remarkably durable throughout his career, but he’s had his share of injuries over the years. In 2019, Pujols suffered a knee injury that forced him to miss significant time. He also underwent surgery on his right foot in 2020. These injuries could have a significant impact on his ability to hit home runs.
IV. Comparing Pujols to Other Home Run Hitters
It’s difficult to compare Pujols to other home run hitters, as he’s in a class of his own. However, it’s worth noting that some of the players who reached 700 home runs were able to maintain their performance into their late 30s and early 40s. This bodes well for Pujols, who is still an effective hitter despite his age.
V. Pujols’ Contract Situation
Pujols is signed through the 2021 season, but it’s unclear if he will continue to play after that. He could choose to retire, or he may be released by the Angels if his production declines. If Pujols is released, he would need to sign with another team in order to have a chance to reach 700 home runs.
VI. Pujols’ Chances of Reaching 700 Home Runs
It’s impossible to say for certain whether Pujols will reach 700 home runs, but there are reasons to be optimistic. He’s still an effective hitter, and he’s been remarkably durable throughout his career. If he can remain healthy and continue to hit at a high level, he has a chance to reach this remarkable milestone.
VII. What Will it Take for Pujols to Reach 700 Home Runs?
In order for Pujols to reach 700 home runs, he’ll need to hit at least 33 more home runs over the next two seasons. This is a tall task for any player, let alone one that is 39 years old. However, Pujols has been able to defy the odds throughout his career, and he could do it again.
VIII. Potential Milestones Along the Way
If Pujols is able to reach 700 home runs, he’ll pass several players on the all-time list. He’ll pass Sammy Sosa and Ken Griffey Jr., and he’ll move into third place on the all-time list. This would be a remarkable achievement, and it would cement Pujols’ legacy as one of the greatest home run hitters of all time.
IX. Pujols’ Legacy
Regardless of whether or not Pujols reaches 700 home runs, he’ll still go down as one of the greatest players of all time. He’s a three-time MVP, a nine-time All-Star, and a World Series champion. He’s also one of the most beloved players of his generation. If Pujols can reach 700 home runs, it would be the perfect way to cap off an incredible career.
X. Conclusion
Albert Pujols is one of the greatest players of all time, and he has a chance to reach the remarkable milestone of 700 home runs. His age and health could be factors, but if he can remain healthy and continue to hit at a high level, he has a chance to reach this milestone. Regardless of whether or not he reaches 700 home runs, his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time is already secure.