Chris Carpenter on The Machine:

CARDINALS ACE Chris Carpenter reflects on the great Albert Pujols, who has handled a contract season and distractions with class and professionalism.


"I've been very fortunate to watch this guy play for the last nine years. When you're that type of player at that level, there are expectations from you, me, I'm sure his family, his kids and friends. I mean, the expectation level for what he's supposed to do is unbelievable ... Every year, you can't believe the things that he does, the games that he has, pressures that he deals with, the distractions coming into this season: a free agent, how much money is he going to get, best player in baseball, is he going to be here, is he not going to be here. But he comes in, just like the same old Albert, and works hard in spring training, starts off a little slow, everybody is questioning whether or not it's because of his contract situation. 


"No, he continues to grind, he continues to play, and continues to do the things that amazes every single one of us. That's who he is. He's an exceptional player, exceptional hitter. He's got the mind of stone. Nothing bothers him no matter what situation he's in. And that's what makes him great."