Pujols: Cards should sign Manny

We'll call it Albert just being Albert.

Albert Pujols, the St. Louis Cardinals' all-world first baseman, told the Associated Press that it could be in the club's best interest to sign Manny Ramirez, the incredibly talented yet overly irritating slugger formerly of Dodger and Red Sox fame.

Apparently Pujols and Ramirez are buddies who chat regularly on the phone and have discussed the possibility of teaming up in St. Louis.

Now, I am in no way questioning Ramirez's talent. He is probably one of the most gifted hitters of all-time.

The question is, is Manny being Manny worth Manny protecting Pujols.

Should the Cards move on Pujols' advice, and there is absolutely no indication they would do so, the Cardinals would have a middle lineup that would include Pujols, Ramirez, Rick Ankiel and Ryan Ludwick.

The Cardinals are already crowded in the outfield position. So much so, that super-prospect Colby Rasmus may have to wait in the minors for another year to get a legitimate shot at as a featured player.

In this blogger's humble opinion, Manny is not worth the hassle. But that being said, should Ramirez opt to wear the birds on the bat, I'd be the first to say a Albert/Manny one-two punch would be the most prolific in baseball without a doubt. Maybe even one THE most deadly combo in baseball history.

Here is a look at one bloggers take on the best one-two punches in baseball history... Manny is already on that list while he teamed with slugger David Ortiz.

But the real question is, is Manny worth it? I say no. Others say yes. Pujols says yes.

Obviously, it will help the team win ballgames. But on the other hand, it could be a bad situation for the clubhouse.

It would no doubt create an excitement around the team heading into the season. So maybe, just maybe, I'd be willing to change my mind if Manny signed.

But until he does, I'll go on record and say it's a bad idea.