Part 5/9:
The Cardinals built a championship-caliber team around Pujols, leading to a remarkable 2004 season where they won 105 games. However, despite Pujols's stellar postseason performances, including key hits against the Red Sox, the Cardinals fell short of the championship. This disappointment fueled his drive for a World Series ring. In 2005, after winning his first MVP award, Pujols pushed the Cardinals into the playoffs once again, but they were halted in the Championship Series by the Houston Astros.
An unexpected turnaround came in 2006 when the Cardinals, despite a mediocre 83-win regular season, found their stride in October. Pujols's consistent hitting became crucial, and St. Louis ultimately captured the World Series title, fulfilling Albert's long-held dream.