Cards, Pujols can't agree on new deal

The Cardinals made Albert Pujols what they said was their best offer. It wasn't enough, so the superstar slugger seems headed for the open market next fall.

The deadline Pujols set for the Cardinals to reach a new contract agreement passed yesterday with no deal, making it likely that the three-time MVP will become a free agent after the World Series. The Cardinals said they will respect Pujols' wishes and not request more talks during the season, unless the first baseman changes his mind.

"A difference of opinion in determining Albert's value simply could not be resolved," Pujols' agent, Dan Lozano, said.

The Cardinals would not reveal their offer, though it was believed to be around $200 million for eight years, possibly with an opportunity for Pujols to obtain an ownership stake once his playing days are complete.

When - and if - talks resume, it's unclear if St. Louis will increase its offer to Pujols' liking.

"We explored a number of different things in the negotiation," Cardinals chairman William DeWitt Jr. said. "Without getting specific in what those were, there was discussion about other things that could be part of the contract.''

Pujols will make $16 million this season, with $4 million deferred with no interest. The nine-time All-Star is the only player in major-league history to hit 30 or more home runs in each of his first 10 seasons, all with the Cardinals.

Brewers' Weeks: $38.5M

Second baseman Rickie Weeks agreed to a four-year, $38.5-million contract with the Brewers that contains a 2015 option that could increase the total value to $50 million.

Weeks, 28, hit .269 with 29 homers, 83 RBIs and 112 runs in 160 games. His durability had been a major issue until last season. He missed half a year with right wrist surgery in 2006, needed a knee procedure after 2008 and played only 37 games in 2009 after a left wrist injury.

Indians sign Cabrera

Infielder Orlando Cabrera passed his physical and signed a one-year contract with the Indians. Financial terms were not immediately available. Although primarily a shortstop, Cabrera, 36, will compete for the starting job at second base. He hit .263 with four homers and 42 RBIs last season with the Reds. He has played only 33 games at second in the majors, but the Indians are confident he can make the switch.