Orioles suddenly shift direction in managerial hunt as Albert Pujols waits in limbo

A new twist has emerged in the Baltimore Orioles hunt for a new manager. New York Post columnist and MLB insider Jon Heyman is reporting that former Seattle Mariners skipper Scott Servais is drawing interest from both the O's and the Minnesota Twins. Servais was dismissed with just a few weeks remaining in the 2024 season after Seattle was unable to climb over the .500 mark.

The Orioles have been seeking a new leader in the dugout ever since they terminated the contract of Brandon Hyde midway through the 2025 regular season. Hyde was replaced by interim manager Tony Mansolino — who is also in the running to take over on a permanent basis heading into next season — though it would seem that his chances of securing the job have taken a hit in recent weeks.

Another name that's been bandied about for the past week or so is former NL MVP Albert Pujols. The future Hall of Famer is currently working as a special assistant for the Los Angeles Angels. Though Pujols was in the mix to take over for Ron Washington in Anaheim, the Angels' brass is now said to be looking elsewhere to fill their managerial vacancy.

Orioles suddenly shift their sights to Scott Servais as Albert Pujols waits in limbo

While Pujols is said to have piqued the Orioles' interest, reports emerged on Monday that the San Diego Padres are also interested in hiring the 11-time All-Star. Sources claim that the Orioles have reached out to Pujols' representation, but to date, no meeting has been scheduled.

The Friars ditched Mike Shildt last week — though the team's official statement is that he retired — and Pujols is said to have a good relationship with San Diego stars Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado. San Diego os slated to begin talks with Pujols on Wednesday, and it's quite possible that Padres President of Baseball Operations AJ Preller won't allow him to leave southern California without a deal in place.

Servais has a winning record across nine big-league seasons but only made it to the playoffs on one occasion. A veteran catcher of 11 Major League seasons, Servais 2022 Mariners' team went 90-72, but bowed out in the ALDS.

The only team who's found their new leader so far this offseason is the Texas Rangers. Skip Schumaker will be leading the charge in Arlington next season, and the San Francisco Giants are said to be closing in on University of Tennessee coach Tony Vitello, but have yet to work out all the details.

At the moment, there are still eight managerial vacancies (including the Orioles), but once the World Series comes to an end, these jobs are likely to fill up quickly.