Cardinals make first move in Albert Pujols reunion talks

The St. Louis Cardinals haven’t said no to an Albert Pujols reunion after all, despite reports they’d rather look for a full-time DH elsewhere.

Recent reports suggested a Pujols reunion wouldn’t take place in St. Louis, as the Cardinals believe they have better in-house options for the new permanent designated hitter position in the National League.

While that could still prove to be true, the Cardinals are at least doing their due diligence with Pujols.

A reunion with St. Louis would allow him to reunite with the team where he began his career and one of his best friends in Yadier Molina, who is expected to retire after this season.

Pujols is about 21 home runs away from 700. The reception for this accomplishment happening in St. Louis would be epic.

Cardinals rumors: Albert Pujols reunion still in play

If he joins the team, he would not have a set on-field role as Paul Goldschmidt is their first baseman. However, he could always use a day off or be needed as designated hitter for a game. Pujols is fully capable of being the club’s DH as well and gain a lot of interest doing so.

Pujols’ presence in the clubhouse would also be good for the young team. Even the club veterans would love the chance to pick Pujols’ brain.

What role Pujols would have and the expectations for him and himself will all play into what happens next.

After he left the Cardinals to sign with the Los Angeles Angels a decade ago, fans were definitely upset. When he returned to St. Louis with the Angels and again in 2021 with the Dodgers, it was obvious time had healed the hurt on all sides.

With the Cardinals showing interest in Pujols, fans will easily be a little apprehensive but still excited at the prospect of a reunion. There is a chance.