Bring back Albert Pujols
Even though it has been a decade since he has worn a St. Louis Cardinals uniform, Albert Pujols is still beloved by the fanbase.
It appeared as though it was all over for him early in 2021. His bat had slowed down to the point where he was a complete liability, the Angels unceremoniously releasing him in May. However, he found a new life with the Dodgers, filling in as a platoon player at first and a pinch hitter. Even if he is no longer The Machine, he still had some life left at the plate.
The Cardinals are very cognizant of their history. That could be seen with their push to keep Yadier Molina and Adam Wainwright, ensuring that they retire in a Cardinals uniform. The same should happen with another one of their all time great players, as Pujols can come back home.
There is a potential opening for him moving forward. The designated hitter is likely coming to the National League next year, allowing Pujols to remain in the lineup without having to play the field. He could reprise that part time role in 2022 for the Cardinals, taking his final swings where it all began.
The St. Louis Cardinals have a chance to bring back a franchise icon. It may just be a matter of time before it happens.