One of the Houston Astros' biggest priorities this offseason is finding a new manager to replace Joe Espada, whom they parted ways with last month after three seasons.
According to a report from MLB.com's Brian McTaggart on Wednesday, the Astros are apparently interviewing former MLB All-Stars Morgan Ensberg and Albert Pujols for the opening later this week.
Pujols, 46, does not have any MLB coaching or managing experience, although he does have some managing experience in the Dominican Winter League and World Baseball Classic. However, he did play 22 MLB seasons as one of the best hitters in the sport's history, winning three NL MVP awards and a pair of World Series rings.
Since retiring after the 2022 campaign, Pujols has worked as a special assistant for the Los Angeles Angels and as an analyst for MLB Network. Last winter, he interviewed for manager openings with the Angels and San Diego Padres.
Ensberg, 51, spent seven of his eight MLB seasons with Houston, helping the franchise win its first pennant in 2005 with the best year of his career. He has seven seasons of Minor League managing experience, including the last three years leading the Durham Bulls in Triple-A.
Pujols was a better player, but Ensberg is more qualified, making them interesting candidates for the Astros to consider.