It is now a matter of when, not if, for St. Louis Cardinals slugger Albert Pujols.
On Suday, Pujols moved into sole possession of fourth place on the MLB all time home run list with his 697th career home run. His two run blast in the top of the ninth was the big blow in a four run ninth inning helping the Cardinals to a 4-3 victory over the Pirates.
Start the countdown for St. Louis Cardinals slugger Albert Pujols
Pujols has been on an incredible run over the final few weeks of his career. He had 686 home runs entering August 10 and appeared to be running on fumes. While the Cardinals were contending for a postseason berth, and he would have a chance for one last title, that appeared to be as far as the story would go.
But no one told Pujols he was done. He has managed to find the Fountain of Youth, performing at a level that he has not reached since his first stint in St. Louis. Pujols has belted 11 homers in his last 89 plate appearances, putting the pedal to the floor as he looks to make history and reach that milestone.
At this point, there are just over three weeks left in the regular season. The Cardinals have 21 games left, including ten more at home. That should be enough time for Pujols to get those three more home runs that he needs. With the Cardinals’ next seven games all being in St. Louis, it is possible that he reaches that milestone in front of his hometown fans, a legend making history in a city he never should have left.
Albert Pujols is within striking distance of the 700 home run mark. At this point, it is a matter of when the St. Louis Cardinals slugger gets there.