Report: Pujols drawing interest from Cardinals

Could Albert Pujols head back to where it all began?

The three-time MVP is drawing interest from the St. Louis Cardinals, with whom Pujols spent the first 11 years of his career, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports.

Cardinals president Bill DeWitt indicated earlier this week that the team had discussed a potential reunion internally but conceded during an appearance on 101 ESPN St. Louis that they "like where (they) are." Katie Woo of The Athletic reported Friday that a deal seemed like a long shot.

MLB insider Robert Murray added Friday that three or four teams were expressing interest in Pujols, though no potential suitors were named.

Pujols, 41, was designated for assignment by the Los Angeles Angels while in the final season of his 10-year, $240-million contract. The 10-time All-Star officially cleared waivers recently, making him a free agent.

He spent his best years with the Cardinals, earning two World Series championships, all three of his MVP awards, and his 2004 NLCS MVP distinction. Over his stint with St. Louis, the slugger hit .328/.420/.617 with 445 homers and 84 stolen bases. After joining the Angels in 2012, Pujols slashed .256/.311/.447 with 222 home runs and 31 steals.

With Paul Goldschmidt at first base and the National League operating without a designated hitter, Pujols' path to playing time with the Cardinals would be unclear. Goldschmidt, who's hitting .248/.304/.409 with six homers and a pair of steals this season, has never played anywhere but first in his major-league career.