Miami, FL
Albert Pujols was the latest free agent to meet with the Marlins amid the ceremony marking the official transition to their new name and a move to a new stadium.
It capped a busy week for the new-look Marlins, who met with left-hander Mark Buehrle Tuesday and then made another tour of their new ballpark with shortstop Jose Reyes Wednesday.
Although there was no confirmation from the Marlins whether any contract offers have been made, there are reports that preliminary offers were made to Buerhle, Reyes and Pujols.
Reyes reportedly may be close to signing with the Marlins, who could form a formidable infield with the acquisition of All-Star slugger Pujols.
If they can acquire Reyes and Pujols, the Marlins could have an excellent infield, with Hanley Ramirez converted to either second base or third base. Gaby Sanchez could also be transferred to another position once the two top free agents are signed.
The two-time World Series champion and nine-time All-Star Pujols met with the Marlins while getting a tour of the 37,000-seat, retractable-roof ballpark, built on the site of the old Orange Bowl.
Pujols and his agent, Dan Lozano, spent most of the afternoon with Marlins officials before leaving town Friday night, MLB.com reported.
Pujols, 31, considered one of the top players in Major League Baseball, has been recognized with the NL MVP award on three occasions ('05, '08, '09) and with the NL Hank Aaron award twice ('03, 09). He is also a six-time Silver Slugger Award recipient.
On Nov. 3, 2011, he became a free agent for the first time in his career. Pujols has played his entire career with the St. Louis Cardinals, who drafted him in 1999.
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