World Series 2011: Why Allen Craig Is the Real MVP

Through the first three games, the 2011 World Series has presented us with intense and exciting moments in equal abundance.

Games 1 and 2 saw pitching and situational hitting reign supreme, while Game 3 was exactly what we entered the series expecting—pure, big-boy offense.

Now when it's all said and done, most people are going to remember this series for the relentless display of athleticism that Albert Pujols historically showed us in Game 3.

For those who live under a rock, Pujols did this—5-for-6, three home runs, six RBI and four runs.

Simply amazing numbers that boosted him into conversations with Reggie Jackson and the great Babe Ruth.

But let's hold on.

Pujols' performance needs to be appreciated for what it truly was—a historic game. People need to remember that MVP awards are given for an entire series.

But for the St. Louis Cardinals, their true MVP through three games is outfielder Allen Craig.

Craig's assistance to the Cardinals seemingly goes unnoticed, mainly because it's not highlighted on a stat sheet.

I'm not going to sugarcoat this. It simply can't be denied.

The Cardinals don't win the pivotal Game 1 without Allen Craig, and he didn't even start. He broke a 1-1 tie in the bottom of the sixth and the team won 2-1.

The Cardinals don't have a chance to win Game 2 without Allen Craig, and he didn't even start. He broke a 0-0 tie in the bottom of the seventh before their ninth-inning collapse.

Finally, you let Allen Craig start and what does he do? He homers in the second at-bat of the game to give the Cardinals the early momentum.

Allen Craig has done something truly special through three games in this World Series, and it's likely that, win or lose, most people outside of Cardinal nation won't recognize that.

Most could argue that Alexi Ogando is the best relief pitcher in the Rangers' bullpen. Craig has owned him.

I'm going to be the first to admit that I recognize that Pujols is basically a shoo-in for the MVP award after his Hollywood performance on Saturday night.

Before this series, I would have never deemed Allen Craig a clutch baseball player, but in clutch situations, Tony La Russa should look no further. And to me, that is an MVP-worthy intangible that every team can't go without.

The question remains in bold:

After King Albert's historic night, will you even remember who Allen Craig is?

And that's the sad part.