Pujols receives standing ovations from Cards fans

ST. LOUIS -- As a person who lives in the St. Louis suburb of Belleville, Ill., Chicago Cubs pitcher Randy Wells understands the importance of Albert Pujols to the Cardinals and their fans.

Wells graciously stepped aside and let Pujols enjoy a 45-second standing ovation during his first at-bat Sunday in the Cardinals' 3-2 win over the Cubs.

"It's his town and he definitely deserves it," Wells said. "It was a nice moment for him. I respect Albert. Everyone respects Albert."

Making what might have been his final home appearance, Pujols went 0 for 4, stopping his streak of reaching base at 40 successive games. The three-time NL MVP, who is eligible for free agency after the season, stepped out of the batter's box and tipped his helmet while Wells patiently waited.

"He understood what was happening," Pujols said about Wells. "I appreciate that."

After the crowd settled down, Wells got Pujols to hit into a double play that ended the inning.

"It was pretty emotional, obviously," he said. "I just wanted to make sure that I stayed focused."

Pujols has been noncommittal on his future, tending to focus on the present.

"Right now, I'm still a Cardinal," he said. "I'm going to do my best to help this organization to the next level. That's my job. If I get distracted, thinking about what's going to happen this offseason, I don't think I'm doing my job."