"Lance Berkman is having an impressive year, bouncing back from a dispiriting 2010 that saw him leave Houston, where he had spent his entire big-league career, and join the Yankees for a brief, forgettable stint.

Written off as a viable player, the surprise and scorn by the public was evident when the Cardinals inked Berkman to a one-year deal worth $8 million to play right field. Somehow, it's worked out so far. While Berkman's defense leaves much to be desired, he's hitting at a clip not seen since 2006, as he's bashed 28 home runs with a line of .294/.407/.583 over 435 plate appearances. Now, Berkman's going to be in demand as a free agent. Even being 35 won't faze teams who will be glad to hand him a one-year deal -- if not two years -- to contribute his thump in the middle of the order.

Except, to hear Berkman tell it to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, he may not be around next season.

"At this stage of my career, it's safe to say that if I'm not thrilled with the opportunities out there for me after this season, this would be it," Berkman said."