Discussion: Should The Cards Extend Pujols Now?

Bernie Miklasz of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says the Cardinals should try to extend Albert Pujols' contract soon, instead of waiting until the first baseman becomes a free agent after 2011. Here's his reasoning: Already a two-time MVP with a batting title, a World Series win and the fourth highest OPS of all-time, Pujols could finish his career as the greatest right-handed hitter ever. He's a good defender and a smart baserunner.   Cardinals fans love him and would be devastated to see their star leave.  Baseball Prospectus projects Pujols to be an elite hitter well into his thirties. But there are reasons to hold off extension talks, at least for now: An injury between now and the end of the 2011 season could prevent him from playing, limit some elements of his game, or lower his market value.  They can wait a year and a half and still have exclusive negotiating rights next winter. It's hard to imagine Pujols ...