SO WHERE WILL THE CARDINALS BE WHEN PUJOLS RETURNS?

Some would say, first place, no problem. Some would say second but they can make it up. Others hope for a free fall. They're the ones who cheer for another NL team, though I don't know why.

I would suspect that the guys with the birds on the bat would have to battle this year. Come from behind. Maybe even get some momentum heading into the playoffs. Maybe even as a wild card team. How about that?

Well, it's going to be an interesting Summer in the heart of America. Mr. Pujols' injury will cause management, Tony, and Walt many sleepless nights trying to stop gap or revamp. And no one is feeling sorry for the good guys. Trade talks will begin with potential suitors demanding Wainwright and Reyes.

So while the Cardinals will miss Baseball's Best until after the All-Star Game, maybe someone can be an Abe Nunez who played super in Rolen's absence and parlayed a million dollar deal in the off-season. But St. Louis will miss El Hombre. Along with the rest of baseball.

Hasten, hie, get back quick, Prince Albert. Your cape awaits you.