St. Louis Cardinals designated hitter Albert Pujols (5) reacts after hitting a three-run home run and the 700th of his career against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the fourth inning at Dodger Stadium. Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Albert Pujols isn't mad fan kept 700th home run ball

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 9/24/22

Future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols made history on Friday night, becoming just the fourth player to reach 700 career home runs.

After the St. Louis Cardinals' 11-0 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers, Pujols left Dodgers Stadium without the priceless baseball. According to Fox Sports' Ben Verlander, the fan who caught home run No. 700 plans to keep the ball, despite being presented with offers before leaving the game.

While the decision has enraged baseball fans, Pujols took the high road when asked Saturday about getting the ball back from the fan.

"Souvenirs are for the fans. I don't have any problem if they want to keep it," Pujols told Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register. "If they want to give it back, that's great. But at the end of the day, I don't focus on material stuff."

Pujols smashed two home runs Friday night against the Los Angeles Dodgers to reach the milestone. He joins Babe Ruth (714), Hank Aaron (755), and Barry Bonds (762) as the only players in baseball history to hit 700 or more home runs.

The 42-year-old, who has announced his intention to retire at season's end, is enjoying a productive last ride. Through 101 games, Pujols is batting .263/.337/.519 with 21 home runs and 58 RBI.

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