The Man vs. El Hombre

Many St. Louis Cardinal fans were upset when Albert Pujols left for more money in sunny Southern California. Many comments that were made were not fair to Albert and hopefully did not reflect the feelings of the majority of fans. He has been an active participant in many St. Louis charity events and he casts a shadow far beyond the world of baseball with those activities. It is worth noting that while in St. Louis Albert actively resisted efforts to call him "El Hombre" out of respect for Stan "The Man" Musial. When you speak of St. Louis baseball and you say "The Man" there is never any question about who you are talking about. Albert was correct in his position and he deserves respect for taking that stand. The California Angels apparently were not aware of Albert's objection to this nickname and put up about 20 billboards referring to him as "El Hombre". He has once again taken the stand that this is not appropriate and has requested the billboards be removed. The Angels have respected his request and have agreed to do so. Some now are referring to Albert as a diva and demanding things outside his gigantic contract. They could not be more wrong. He is attempting to continue to pay respect to one of the greatest players in the history of baseball. Albert Pujols is a very good player and if he remains healthy he may well be spoken of with the likes of Ruth, Mantle, and Aaron. Albert as well as anyone who loves the traditions of the game understands that time is not now. When it is he will need his own nickname and not a remake of Stan Musial's. So Albert, continue to do the right thing, play the game with intensity and respect for tradition, because it is the way the game should be played. Purists will never accept the gambling of Pete Rose, the steriod records of Barry Bonds and any other player who has disrespected the great traditions of America's game.