I can't say I'm surprised that he wasn't signed.

The more I think about it, by NOT signing him, all the pressure is on Albert. He better well have a damn good year this year with us, put up big #'s and stay injury free, or he ain't gonna get his 10yr-30m from anyone. That only helps the Cards this year. If he doesn't have a big year, or gets gimpy, the amount he can command will only fall.

If we can't afford him anyway . . . why not roll the dice and milk him for at least this year.