Albert Pujols Bats Views

General Goods

Jerry Manuel, the Mets’ manager, said it makes sense for La Russa because of the overwhelming offensive presence of Albert Pujols in the No. 3 spot. In 1998-99, Mark McGwire was a similar presence for La Russa. By using a position player ninth, La Russa ensures that Pujols bats in the first inning and then has three hitters in front of him in subsequent at-bats.

I receive many e-mails asking my opinion about Albert Pujols bats that people are considering buying. Unfortunately, it seems most of those bats have some characteristic that isn't consistent with use by Albert. So, to help Pujols collectors make more-informed buying decisions, I've put together a quick reference guide that offers tips and opinions that, I hope, will at least cause potential buyers to think twice before spending big bucks on a Pujols bat.

Albert does donate bats to a select few charity auctions sponsored by other players and teams. And he sometimes gives gamers to sick children, celebrities he meets or other acquaintances. Just because a bat didn't come from the Cardinals, ARF or PFF doesn't automatically mean it's not a legit gamer, especially early career bats that hit the hobby before Albert's fame exploded. So, if you come across a Pujols bat that doesn't have foolproof provenance, there are several more things to consider.

Model: Albert's known Marucci models include the AP5-M Custom Cut, AP5 Custom Cut, Pujols Custom Cut, and the CB15B Pro Model (2007). When he used Louisville Slugger, he favored the I13L, but also received and used the I13, C243, M356 and R205. A list of Albert's LS bat orders and specs (through early 2005) is available here. Pujols' Sam Bats were either SG1, JB1 or JB1(S)SG1 models. X-Bats will be labeled h"Model 24/Pro Maple 34r" or "Model 13/Pro Maple 34f" and should not have any kind of flag on the handle. Old Hickory bats are labeled g"Custom Pro AP5v" or "34.0 PRO JL18.r" His known Max Bat model is the 243. Any Max Bat model C4 with Pujols' name on it is a fake.