Breaking: Cardinals, Pujols negotiations end without new contract

One of the best players of a generation will hit the free agent market after the 2011 season.

The St. Louis Cardinals and star 1st baseman Albert Pujols failed to agree to a contract extension before Pujols’ self-imposed deadline of noon on the first day of Spring Training.  The two sides have ended negotiations and will not talk about a new deal during the season.

Pujols is seeking to become the highest paid player in baseball asking for a 10-year deal worth approximately $300 million.  He was also seeking a minority stake in ownership of the Cardinals organization.  St. Louis came in with a last-ditch offer in excess of 8-years and $200 million but it wasn’t enough.