Is Albert Pujols worth $30 million?

Chicago White Sox GM Ken Williams stated "for the game's health as a whole, when we're talking about 
$30 million players, I think it's asinine."


This raises the question: What is Albert Pujols worth as a baseball player? Well I don't think $30 million is out of the question although I think more like $25-$29 million per year is more likely. Look at A-Rod. In 
2007, he signed a mega 10 year $275 million deal with the New York Yankees. 


So then, why would it be so impossible for Pujols to get $30 million if he has been hailed as the best player in the league. The main problem with Pujols getting this mega deal is because the top teams already have first basemen. The Red Sox have Adrian Gonzalez and the Yankees have Mark Teixeira. If the Yankees were to sign Pujols he would have to be the DH or possibly in the outfield. The Mets have the potential-filled Ike Davis currently playing first base, and the Mets are looking to trim their payroll next year. With Pujols on the wrong side of 30, he is fixed essentially at first base.


Pujols has proven his abilities in both the regular season and postseason. His last statistical season was in 2007 when he hit .327 with 32 homers and 103 RBI. He is coming off a season in which he hit .312 with 42 homer runs. In the postseason, Pujols is a .322 hitter.


Therefore, the most likely team to sign Pujols are the Cardinals themselves. Although the contract negotiating have failed before this season, the Cardinals will definitely be the leading team pursuing Pujols in the offseason.