Let the season of speculation begin.
Pujols, a nine-time All-Star, three-time MVP, two-time Gold Glover and one-time World Series champion, is the most important figure in St. Louis sports. He is well on his way to joining Stan Musial as a certifiable legend in the city. Losing Pujols to free agency next winter would be a complete and utter disaster for the Cardinals, and the fact that they weren't willing to break the bank for him this winter indicates that such a departure is a very possible reality.
Of course, the market may be somewhat softened for Pujols, given that the Yankees are set long-term with Mark Teixeira at first base and the Red Sox appear to have a long-term agreement in place with Adrian Gonzalez. The two biggest bidders are off the market — probably — so there may not be any club that can match the 10-year, $300 million contract that Pujols reportedly wants.
There are the Cubs, who have an opening at first and are always among the highest spenders, and there are the Angels, who have the cash and would happily move Kendry Morales if it meant getting the perennial MVP candidate.
Of course, you can't rule the Yankees and Red Sox out, as they could shift someone's position or utilize someone as a DH if it meant signing Pujols. All that being considered, where will Pujols play for the next decade?
We narrowed it down to this list, but feel free to add your thoughts in the comments if we left any teams out.
With which team will Albert Pujols sign after the 2011 season?online survey
