Pujols, who is almost certain to be voted in as the National League All-Star first baseman when the results are announced on Sunday,  said, “I don’t care if (Major League Baseball) asks.

“I did it three times (including last year in St. Louis) and I enjoyed it. I don’t feel like I want to do it this year.”

Pujols, an eight-time All Star so far, said he didn’t get fatigued participating in the Home Run Derby despite the many swings and several hours that are devoted to it.

“Doing the Home Run Derby doesn’t wear anybody out,” he said. “It didn’t wear me out.

“That’s just putting out an excuse.”

– Rick Hummel, STLToday.com.

Weird article. So Albert Pujols doesn’t want to participate in the home-run derby, but it’s not because he fears it will tire him out or mess with his swing. He just doesn’t feel like it.

And you know what? I’m not here to doubt Albert Pujols. Being that awesome must be taxing, and baseball players just don’t get many days off. Maybe he would just appreciate an extra day of rest even if the derby wouldn’t tire him any further.

It’s a shame, though, because the pure spectacle of the Home Run Derby is my favorite part of the All-Star Weekend and Albert Pujols is pretty much my favorite part of living on earth, so it’d be cool if they could hook up again.

But all things considered, it’s better for Pujols to be fully happy and rested for the games that actually count. As long as he still feels like being the best hitter in baseball, I’ve got no complaints.