"This is my last run", Pujol says after rejoining St. Louis Cardinals
Albert Pujol looks to be preparing for his final MLB season after returning to the St. Louis Cardinals, who haven't won the World Series since he left.
Albert Pujols, who has rejoined the St. Louis Cardinals, appears to be readying himself for his last season in MLB season, as he bids to take his team back to the World Series.
Future Hall of Famer Pujols has signed a one-year, $2.5million contract back in St. Louis, where he started his career in 2001.
In 11 seasons with the Cardinals, the 42-year-old won three National League MVPs, made nine All-Star Game appearances and claimed two World Series titles.
"This is it for me - this is my last run"
Now, after nine and a half seasons with the Los Angeles Angels before ending last year on the Los Angeles Dodgers, he is ready for one final push.
"This is it for me," Pujols said. "This is my last run."
Pujols appears set to play in a part-time role, as a designated hitter against left-handed pitchers and as a late-game pinch-hitter.
He added: "I think I am here for a reason. They believe I can still play this game."
Pujols may no longer be the difference-maker he was in those two title runs, but the Cardinals have not added to their 11 World Series wins since then, losing to the Boston Red Sox in 2013.
Molina excited by Pujols return to Cardinals
Yadier Molina, the 39-year-old catcher who was a team-mate for both championships and has spent his entire career in St. Louis, is delighted to be reunited with Pujols.
"I'm happy for him to be here," he said. "It's going to be a fun year. We've only got one thing in mind – winning another championship."