"The Los Angeles Angels accomplished in less than two days what the Cardinals failed to transact in two years by signing three-time National League MVP Albert Pujols to a contract that will run through the remainder of a Hall of Fame career.

Late entries to the process, the Angels stunned Major League Baseball's winter meetings by overwhelming the Cardinals and at least two other suitors with a 10-year, $254 million bid free of deferred money and packed with enough milestone incentives to make the deal worth upwards of $280 million.

The Angels' pursuit contrasted the Cardinals' methodical, conservative tact that saw them follow up last February's failed talks about a contract extension with an offer that actually featured a lower average annual value.

The Angels add a talent that Angels general manager Jerry DiPoto called "the most consistent offensive player of his generation." The Cardinals lose an iconic figure whose value only began with a career .328 average, 445 home runs and 1,329 RBI that make him Hall of Fame-worthy after only 11 major-league seasons.

"I don't think there's another person you can add who changes the complexion of a complete lineup like he does," said Angels center fielder Vernon Wells. "The guys hitting in front of him and hitting behind him are going to have him on base all the time. That's why throughout this process I never thought it possible he would end up as an Angel, because to be able add a piece like that is something you dream about, not only as a player but as a fan."

Pujols leaves the Cardinals following his first season in which he failed to reach 100 RBI or maintain a .300 average. His decline in numbers still left Pujols among league leaders in slugging percentage, on-base percentage, home runs and runs scored.

"If we want to call 'decline' going from superhuman to great," DiPoto said during a morning press conference. "I don't think we've seen the last great days of Albert Pujols, or we wouldn't be sitting here today."

"He respects the game and everything that goes along with it," Wells said. "If there's anyone in this game who had reason to be arrogant and cocky about things, it would be him. But he's far from it.""