Albert Pujols is believed to be the top choice of Arte Moreno for the managerial vacancy of the Los Angeles Angels. Pujols signed a 10-year, $10 million personal services contract as part of his $240 million deal with the Angels ahead of the 2012 season.

Pujols is held in such high regard by Moreno that the job could be the former slugger's already should he choose it.

“Yeah. I think why not,” Pujols said in March when asked if he’d like to manage in the big leagues. “I think if the opportunity is right one day, I think I’ll be ready for that.”

Pujols has been gaining managerial experience in the Dominican Winter League. Pujols will also manage the Dominican team at the World Baseball Classic next year.

The Angels parted ways with Ron Washington as manager this week. The Angels are hiring their sixth manager over the past nine seasons.

“I think the organization has done a great job this year to put a great product on the field,” Pujols said in March. “Not just in the big leagues. But getting guys that will go down to the minor leagues and be ready to help this ball-club hopefully win a championship.”