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The best MLB player ever, Albert Pujols, was getting news attention in March 2022: first, over returning to his starting team, the St. Louis Cardinals; and second, the personal crisis he was in the middle of, as he prepared to return to the team that gave him a jumpstart. At the same time, his wife, Deidre Pujols, had a grave health issue to be dealt with. She had a brain tumor removed surgically, which she had made public to their fans. Fortunately, the surgery was successful, and Deidre received an outpouring of support during her recovery.
However, just days after her surgery, Albert Pujols shocked fans and followers with his surprising announcement: he was filing for divorce. The news came as a complete shock to the fans and followers who had looked up to the couple. For 22 years, Deidre Pujols was his wife, the one who stood by Albert’s side as his career headlines in the majors played a great part of his life outside of baseball. She is highly religious and sensitive; she masterminded many of the family’s charitable initiatives, one of them involving the Pujols Family Foundation for children with Down syndrome and needy families.
Close to her surgery, the announcement was having many raise an eyebrow at what would have finally pulled them apart. The reasons for their separation remain somewhat private by the couple, but the end of their marriage indeed marked the dissolution of what seemed to be a pretty solid partnership. They have five children, and they leave behind them a legacy not only as a family but also as a team committed to serving humanity.
As Deidre starts this new chapter in her life, strength and resilience remain impressive. She continues to inspire with work and dedication to causes championed. At the same time, Albert will have to devote himself to his career and personal life, which many fans observe now in detail.
Deidre Pujols’ Family
Born Deidre Corona on June 1, 1976, she hails from Roeland Park, Kansas. She is the daughter of Annette and Michael Corona.
She has at least one brother, Justin Corona. His work is based in both Kansas and California.
Deidre Pujols’ Philanthropic Career
Deidre Pujols has dedicated most of her life to helping children and families. She founded the Pujols Family Foundation, which she’s helmed since its inception in 2005.
Under it, she has spearheaded several initiatives like Open Gate International and Strike Out Slavery. The organizations help raise awareness about human trafficking and modern-day slavery, respectively.
One of her best-known initiatives is inspired by her love for Dominican cuisine. She is the CEO of Pujols Kitchen, which helps disadvantaged women in the Dominican Republic feed their families by providing them with the necessary resources.
Her advocacy for people with Down syndrome also draws attention. For Deidre, it is a personal cause, as she is raising a daughter, Isabella Pujols, with Down syndrome.
Not only does the family foundation enable adults with developmental disabilities to live independently, but Deidre also supports other such groups. That includes the Mission Project founded by her childhood friend. Deidre and Isabella served as honorary chairs of Mission Project’s fundraising event.
Deidre Pujols and Albert Pujols’ Children
Deidre’s daughter, Isabella, was born in 1997 from her previous relationship. Deidre and Albert Pujols have four children together—Albert “AJ” Pujols Jr. (born January 10, 2001), Sophia Pujols (born November 5, 2005), Ezra (born February 5, 2010) and Esther Grace Pujols (born September 16, 2012).
Albert Pujols raised Isabella as his own. The baseman is also known for helping people with developmental disabilities.
Their eldest son, AJ, joined the family foundation as an executive board member. He attends the Vanguard University of Southern California where he was a part of the golf team.
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Deidre Pujols and Albert Pujols’ Divorce
Dominican-born Albert Pujols married Deidre Corona on January 1, 2000. Their family was based in California and in St. Louis, Missouri.
Deidre recently revealed on social media that a tumor was discovered in her brain in October of last year. In late March, she was preparing for surgery to remove the tumor.
Albert signed a one-year contract with the St. Louis Cardinals around this time and arrived at camp while Deidre got the surgery. He spoke about her surgery but had no plans to return to California where Deidre was. He revealed that her mother and family were there to support her.
Only a few days later, Albert Pujols announced through a statement released by his agent that he was filing for divorce from Deidre. He admitted that the timing is not the best, but said that this decision was not sudden. He also said that they are both committed to co-parenting their five children.
