Ripken thinks Pujols will stick around in St. Louis

Baltimore athletic supporters are dreaming about the possbility of Cardinals slugger Albert Pujols signing with the Orioles next offseason. But franchise icon Cal Ripken Jr. doesn't think Pujols will go anywhere if he becomes a free agent at season's end.

"I can’t see Albert playing outside the Cardinal uniform," Ripken told KMOX radio in St. Louis over the weekend.

Ripken said we shouldn't read anything into Pujols' decision to break off contract talks with the Cardinals before spring training. "I think he’ll address it once the season is over," said Ripken, who knows a thing or two about loyalty. "I’m a firm believer that good things happen to good people."

Sorry, Orioles fans, but I'm with Cal. I don't see Albert Pujols bolting St. Louis, either. And if he does, he certainly isn't coming to Baltimore.

Now Wilfredo Pujols? That's another story. I think they can get that Pujols.