Columbia reacts to Albert Pujols' contract agreement

COLUMBIA — The Missourian asked community members during lunch to respond to Albert Pujols' contract agreement with the Los Angeles Angels. The agreement means Pujols will not be returning to the St. Louis Cardinals.

Bengal's Bar and Grill

Dave Fore, works for Atkins Co.

"I'm happy for Albert. I don't know anybody around here that would have done anything different."

Ben Robertson, MU Junior

"I think our team will be fine, especially with Mike Matheny at the helm. I have a positive outlook about it, and we might save some money and maybe get some good utility players."

Chad Stidham, electrical contractor

"I was kind of relieved and disappointed all at once. If the Cardinals had signed him to that kind of money, I'd be afraid we couldn't put a competitive team together. I'll probably follow him, but it won't be the same, I'm more of a fan of the front of the jersey than the back."

George Cummings, sales for Butler Supply

"I'm kind of frustrated with him because I think he didn't look at it as a career standpoint. I think he just looked at it as the money standpoint."

Brendan Long, MU senior

"I'm disappointed, but not exactly surprised, especially with Tony LaRussa leaving, that was a big motivator for him. I may tune in to SportsCenter to see what he's doing, but I'm not gonna watch the Angels' games."

Lucy's Corner Cafe

Cody Rice, general manager

"He doesn't want to play ball anymore. He just wants to make money. Mike Matheny will be a good manager."

Charles Batye, union carpenter

"I was surprised. I just figured he'd stay with them."

Chris Wilson, electrician

"It doesn't bother me. He just wanted 10 years."

David Bugg, former city employee

"I can't say I blame him. It's all about the money. Where's the loyalty?"

Ernie's Cafe & Steak House

Gary Nichols, retired

"I'm heartbroken. I liked his demeanor. He's a good Christian. Win or lose, I just think he's a good person."

Zane Nichols, construction worker

"That's disappointing. Obviously he's a big part of it for so many years. After the performance from the younger players in the World Series, I'm not too worried about it. Age is a factor in any professional sport."

Jared Hitzhusen, night manager at Sports Zone

"He's won the World Series in St. Louis. He's put in his time. He's won an MVP award with the Cardinals. He's won a World Series ring with the Cardinals. There's really nothing else to prove. I wish him luck."

Shiloh Bar & Grill

Deb Davis, consultant for software company

"More power to him. I love the Angels. I think they're a great team, and the Cardinals lost. I love the Cardinals, but I think they blew it."

Arch Brooks, former candidate for mayor

"I'm glad he's gone because there's other Cardinals players who are better than Pujols."

Columbia Area Senior Center

Bill Wulff, 80

"I'm real disappointed. He's had an opportunity to mature there, and I think the fans have been great. St. Louis has given him a lot. I'm sure someone will step forward. One man does not make a team."

Susan SantosCoy,  part-time clerical worker at Columbia Area Senior Center

"I was homeless last summer, and that just makes me want to cry. Albert Pujols is one of my favorite ballplayers. I can't believe it. My farm was foreclosed, and I was living in a tent last July. I'm sure I'll still be a fan."

James Weston, head cook at Columbia Area Senior Center

"It's kind of bittersweet. He's in his prime. I'd like to see him retire as a Cardinal. But we can get two or three quality players and we'll be all right without him. At least he didn't go to the Cubs."

Shelby Pirtle, 72, semi-retired community college instructor

"I hate to see him go. As I told my wife ... the Cardinals have won their share of World Series with him, and we'll win our share without him."