Albert Pujols' unceremonious departure from the Los Angeles Angels isn't sitting well with two Boston Red Sox legends.
The Angels designated Pujols for assignment Thursday with little fanfare, announcing the move in a brief press conference prior to their game against the Tampa Bay Rays.
Considering Pujols is one of the greatest hitters of his generation -- he leads all active players with 667 home runs, 2,112 RBIs, 3,253 hits and 2,886 games played -- who's in his 10th season with Los Angeles, you'd think he would have left the club on better terms.
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Reflecting on Pujols' stats, highlights vs. Red Sox
Former Red Sox pitcher and fellow Dominican Republic native Pedro Martinez apparently feels that way, calling the Angels' release of Pujols "shameful" in a tweet Thursday.
David Ortiz agreed with his ex-Red Sox teammate Friday on Instagram, albeit in a bit less blunt terms.
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"l do not agree on the move that just happen(ed) that was devastating for fans and player," Ortiz wrote. "l know this is a business but l was expecting someone like you to walk away like you deserve."
Martinez and Ortiz's points are well-taken, but it's hard to see this situation playing out any differently. According to Angels general manager Perry Minasian and president John Carpino, Pujols told them he wasn't ready to retire despite hitting just .198 through 24 games this season.
In fact, the 41-year-old is expected to try to sign with another team. But he's been a shell of his former self for the last several years in Los Angeles -- he hasn't hit above .250 since 2016 -- so it was only a matter of time before he and the Angels parted ways.
When Pujols eventually does retire, he'll undoubtedly get the recognition he deserves as a first-ballot Hall of Famer whose sustained success as a hitter is virtually unparalleled.