Albert Pujols Scores by Scott AblemanPujols, who could announce his decision as early as Wednesday, has offers from the St. Louis Cardinals, Miami Marlins and a third team that has publicly declined to be identified. Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak confirmed his club increased its offer to Pujols late Tuesday, his first offer in nine months.

Source: USA Today

Cubs manager Sveum on Pujols, Fielder

Relative to that latter suggestion, Sveum, who has been a coach with and, briefly, manager of the Milwaukee Brewers over the half dozen years, said, “That would be nice if we don’t have him (in the division), no doubt about it. I had to watch it over the last six years what he can do. And it’s pretty impressive. He’s definitely the best hitter in baseball right now. What he did in the playoffs and all that stuff speaks for itself. So … if he’s not with us, you hope that he’s in another division.”

Source: STLtoday.com

Ozzie Guillen talks about Hanley Ramirez, Albert Pujols and Marlins batting order

I love watching Albert & the cards play. But here’s the truth: The cards have offered him more than 21 million a year to play with a team that can win championships (hard to dispute that). If he would leave this franchise and the fans for six or eight million more, then all I can say is “Thanks for the memories and don’t let the door hit you on the ass as you leave.” As good as Albert is, the final games of the series showed the mettle of the Cards team – not just Albert. There is no need for the franchise to match the Marlins or anyone else. If he wants to play major league ball with a team, at a city with fans that have always lifted him up and do it for 20+ million a year, suit up. If 195 million won’t do it – so long Albert!

Source: Palm Beach Post (blog)

If the Cardinals lose Albert Pujols…

They should enter the market for Jimmy Rollins at shortstop, though Rafael Furcal and Alex Gonzalez appear to be more likely options. For the outfield, while right field is the immediate need, it’d be best if they could get someone capable of playing center in case Jon Jay slips. Cuban defector Yoenis Cespedes would be plenty intriguing, but at $60 million or more, he’s likely out of reach. Carlos Beltran would be pretty much perfect for the team, too. Lesser options include Michael Cuddyer, Cody Ross, Andruw Jones.

Source: NBCSports.com

Pujols, Fielder too pricey; Tribe seeks other first base options

LaPorta was expected to be the answer at first base when the Indians acquired him from the Brewers in a trade deadline deal four seasons ago but it hasn’t worked out as planned. In three seasons in the big leagues, LaPorta has hit .238 with 30 home runs and 115 RBIs over 269 games.

Source: Gant Daily

Matheny, Pujols speak, contract not discussed

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Source: FS Midwest

Pujols, Age, and the Midwest League

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Source: FanGraphs (blog)

Albert Pujols Rumors: St. Louis Cardinals Chairman Bill DeWitt Jr. 'Hopeful …

Fox Sports’ Jon Morosi caught up with St. Louis Cardinals Chairman Bill DeWitt Jr. to discuss the status of the Albert Pujols contract negotiations, and while DeWitt said he is “hopeful” the club can re-sign their franchise first baseman, he added that he would not say he is “optimistic.”

Source: SB Nation