Albert Pujols: St. Louis Cardinals Are Clearly Going in a Different Direction

Albert Pujols is now a member of the Los Angeles Angels after signing a 10-year deal that's worth at least $250 million, according to Yahoo's Tim Brown, which clearly shows that the St. Louis Cardinals are going in a different direction.

It's not that shocking of a development when you look inside the changes that have already occurred inside the clubhouse since the team won its second World Series title with No. 5 at first base in October.

Cardinals longtime manager Tony La Russa called it quits just days after defeating the Texas Rangers, signalling the beginning of a new era in St. Louis.

During my time working within the Cardinals organization during the 2006 season, it was clear that the clubhouse was led by La Russa and veteran players such as Pujols and starting pitcher Chris Carpenter fell in line.

Of course, all I got to see were the daily interactions inside the spring training facility at Roger Dean Stadium in Jupiter, FL, but it was enough.

La Russa and Pujols delivered two championships during their time in one of the best baseball cities in America, something that will never be taken away from them.

The nine-time All-Star and three-time National League Most Valuable Player makes the move to the Junior Circuit, which makes the most sense due to the ability to occupy the designated-hitter role down the road.

St. Louis didn't want to give its aging superstar a 10-year deal, saving face by at least being in the hunt during the winter meetings in Dallas.

An improbable run in winning its 12th World Series title made things a lot easier for the St. Louis front office.

Going in a different direction is often difficult, but not for this proud franchise that had no problems getting rid of young outfielder Colby Rasmus.

The Cardinals will be just fine.