Los Angeles Angels' Albert Pujols has foot surgery

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 2 (UPI) -- Three-time MVP Albert Pujols went under the knife Friday to "release" his right plantar fascia.

The 36-year-old hit .268 with 31 home runs and 119 RBI in 152 games last season before being shutdown in late September.

"Albert Pujols underwent surgery today to release his right plantar fascia," the Angels said in a release. "The surgery was performed by Dr. Robert Anderson in North Carolina. Estimated time to return to play for this injury is typically four months."

Angels general manager Billy Eppler said that the surgery means Pujols could resume baseball activity in three months and could play in four, according to Jeff Fletcher of the Orange County Register. He could be ready in time for the Angels' opening day.

Pujols' hefty contract pays him $26 million next season, with $1 million escalators through 2021.

The 10-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion owns a .309 career batting average with 591 home runs.