Twenty years after the 2006 World Series, Albert Pujols said in a 2026 interview that he drafted a farewell letter to St. Louis and nearly walked away from the Cardinals. The decision was reversed after a clubhouse conversation with Jim Edmonds. The revelation reopens debate about loyalty, timing, and how the franchise has changed since its championship core.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Did Albert Pujols almost leave the St. Louis Cardinals in 2006?
- A: Yes. Pujols said he drafted a farewell letter to St. Louis after the 2006 World Series and nearly walked away before a talk with Jim Edmonds changed his mind.
- Q: What did Jim Edmonds say that made Pujols stay?
- A: Edmonds’ clubhouse message, recalled as ‘This might be it,’ prompted Pujols to reconsider and rewrite his farewell letter.
- Q: Why is this story resurfacing in 2026?
- A: The 20-year anniversary of the 2006 championship led to the interview, reopening debate about loyalty, timing, and how the Cardinals franchise has changed since its core era.
