Cardinals chairman doesn’t sound confident about Albert Pujols reunion

The St. Louis Cardinals were named as one of several teams interested in first baseman/designated hitter Albert Pujols. Bill DeWitt doesn’t sound interested.

At this stage of his career, Pujols would have to sign on as a part-time player with a team like St. Louis. The Cardinals view themselves as contenders, not some fun, young team that can afford to give away at-bats to a player like Pujols as he rides off into the sunset.

Still, this is Pujols we’re talking about — a player expected to go into the Hall of Fame with a St. Louis cap on. That sort of history cannot be rewritten, and allowing him to end his career with one last Cardinals run is appetizing. He could also reach 700 home runs this year.

Despite reports to the contrary, Cardinals chairman Bill DeWitt doesn’t sound too interested:

“We haven’t talked much about our team, to be honest,” said DeWitt. “But we’ve got most of our club pretty well set.”

Albert Pujols rumors: Cardinals a good fit?

The designated hitter making its way to the National League could be what ends up extending Pujols’ career, whether it be in St. Louis or elsewhere. Several career milestones are at play, including the aforementioned 700 home runs, which could fill some seats.

But the Cardinals shouldn’t have any issue with that at Busch Stadium. So unless Pujols is willing to take on a lesser contract as a locker room glue guy, full-time pinch-hitter and part-time designated hitter, he’s unlikely to receive a role as a full-time, on-field presence. He’s just not that kind of player anymore.

The Cardinals reportedly believe they have better in-house options for a DH, such as Lars Nootbaar and Juan Yepez. Neither have the pedigree of Pujols, but they may be able to contribute on a more consistent basis.