Albert Pujols

Albert Pujols made his highly anticipated major league debut on April 2, 2001, with the St. Louis Cardinals, following his selection in the 13th round of the 1999 MLB draft. He began his professional career in 2000 with the Peoria Chiefs, where he was named the league’s Most Valuable Player, before advancing through the minor leagues to play for the Potomac Cannons and the Memphis Redbirds, winning the Pacific Coast League title with the latter. In his impactful rookie season, Pujols was named NL Rookie of the Year in 2001, setting an NL rookie record with 130 RBIs and becoming only the fourth MLB rookie to achieve a .300 batting average with 30 home runs, 100 runs, and 100 RBIs.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Pujols actively contributes to philanthropic efforts through the Pujols Family Foundation, dedicated to supporting individuals with Down syndrome and aiding underprivileged communities in the Dominican Republic.