LS - I don't see DeWitt or Mo trying to play a PR game or make AP the bad guy. It seems to me in this era of 24/7 sports "news" coverage and 50-11 talking heads needing something to talk about, this thing has been analyzed and dissected to a point of absurdity. Perhaps it is possible that a sincere effort was made, within the constraints of what the Cardinals could do and it just wasn't even close to what Pujols wants. If that is the case, their hands were tied and this isn't so much a strategy as it is the only route they have. Play out the year and see what offers come in free agency.

If you step back and think about it, Albert is going to have to show his true colors at some time. If he is sincere and the Cards can be in the same ballpark as other suitors, he'll sign with the Cardinals. IF not, he was never going to stay here anyway. It's really not worth getting all worked up about as a fan. You can't control or even influence it. This is big money sports at its best or worst, depending on your point of view.

Personally, I think the dude is out to fill his bank account and his ego. Not saying that is good or bad, it is what it is. He wants to be the highest paid player and he wants piles and piles of cash, no matter what is does to the organization he is playing for. Again, his prerogative. Different things motivate different people. I just look at his statements about wanting to be on a winning team and wanting to remain a Cardinal with a little skepticism now...