Albert Pujols to make spring debut as DH against Reds

Albert Pujols will make his spring debut on Tuesday, according to the Orange County Register’s Jeff Fletcher. Pujols underwent knee surgery during the offseason and wasn’t expected to appear in a game until at least next week. But the 33-year-old slugger was listed in the lineup as the Angels’ designated hitter for Tuesday’s game against the Reds.

Albert Pujols makes his spring debut as DH today. #Angels—
Jeff Fletcher (@JeffFletcherOCR) March 05, 2013

That obviously means today is the first day with Trout-Pujols-Hamilton in the lineup together #Angels—
Jeff Fletcher (@JeffFletcherOCR) March 05, 2013

This is a surprise that Pujols is playing. All indications had been he wouldn't play for another week or so. #Angels—
Jeff Fletcher (@JeffFletcherOCR) March 05, 2013

Pujols tore his meniscus in his right knee after slipping on wet grass during wind sprints and underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in October. Last season, he hit .285/.343/.516 with 30 homers and 105 RBIs with the Angels.