According to Mark Miller of MLB.com, the St. Louis Cardinal’s front office are preparing themselves for a contract extension for Albert Pujols.  Pujols will be a free agent after the completion of the 2011 season.

“I would say in the not-too-distant future,” said the team’s principal owner, Bill DeWitt Jr. “He does have two years left, so it’s not like he’s about to enter Spring Training in his last year. I think the pace will be dictated somewhat by how he feels about it, how he sees things shaping up, and his representatives.”

It’s estimated that Pujols will be the $20+ million range since Mark Teixeira ($22.5 million) and Alex Rodriguez ($27.5 million) are the two closest players that one can compare with Pujols.  Now that Matt Holliday is signed for seven guaranteed season for $17 million each year, and with Pujol’s expected $20+ million, the Cardinals may be spending over $40 million for two players per year.

On a Cardinal’s side note, the team may add a third baseman, a fifth starter or some bullpen help before the season starts.