Angels’ Albert Pujols not deviating from routines
A new clubhouse, new manager and new league mean nothing to Albert Pujols’ attention to being a creature of habit.
“I’m keeping the same routine,” the three-time National League MVP said Monday before the Angels played the visiting Dodgers at Diablo Stadium. “It’s worked the same for 11 years. No reason to change.”
Part of Pujols’ program is to “wake up, take shower and get here” to the field, a schedule that makes him one of the first to arrive at the field. “It’s not like I have to race be the first here.
“I want to be ready. It’s a long season, seven or eight months.”
When asked if his spring aggressiveness on the base paths indicates one aspect of the game he’s working to improve this season, Pujols said, “It’s nothing different. It’s how I play the game.”
Through five spring games, Pujols is batting .545 (6 for 11) with four runs and four runs batted in.
In a brief discussion with a group of national baseball reporters, Pujols said the only expectations being thrust on him and his team are by reporters.
“The players just need to play the game,” Pujols said. “The thing I can control is playing. The things I can’t, I can’t. On paper, we look good -- and in the clubhouse. You can’t take anything for granted. Get quality at-bats, make pitches and see where we are after 162 games.”
RELATED:
Photos: Albert Pujols through the years
Get our high school sports newsletter
Prep Rally is devoted to the SoCal high school sports experience, bringing you scores, stories and a behind-the-scenes look at what makes prep sports so popular.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
