With the passing of Wednesday’s deadline to sign an extension, it appears that St. Louis Cardinals slugger Albert Pujols will test the free agent waters at the completion of the 2011 season.  Here are the teams most likely to add him with our corresponding odds:

CARDINALS (3-to-1) – There chances were much better when they weren’t competing with other teams. However, the fact they weren’t even close with Pujols suggests they won’t be near the top of being the highest bidder. The only thing that might keep him in St. Louis is loyalty.

CUBS (5-to-1) – The Cubs need to make a splash and could come up with the cash if needed. They are slowly getting out the hole of bad contract signings and the addition of Pujols would give the give team another draw aside from its stadium. Pujols would crack 50-plus homers a season playing at Wrigley Field.

ANGELS (8-to-1) – It has been a while since the Angels landed a marquee free agent, but they seemingly are always involved in the bidding. It could be the best fit in the A.L. when you consider salary, market, and need.

METS (10-to-1) – Despite the team’s current financial woes, they are only a couple minor investors away from getting back on track. Competing with the Yankees inside the market was tough enough. Now the Mets must match a Phillies’ team that has one of baseball’s best rotations of all-time and a killer offense.

DODGERS (12-to-1) – Assuming the dust settles on the nasty divorce between the team’s owners in time, the Dodgers could open up the check books. However, signing Pujols at a large contract could mean the departure of several of the team’s young stars who are nearing the end of their arbitration years.

TIGERS (12-to-1) – The Tigers are known for breaking out the wallet which makes them a player here. However, they currently have Miguel Cabrera playing the position, so that could lower their desire.

WHITE SOX (12-to-1) – They seem like a long shot, but they play in a market to support the move. Adding Pujols would help the break out of the Cubs’ shadow a bit and make them perennial contenders in the AL Central.

RED SOX (12-to-1) – It appears as if the team will lock up newly acquired Adrian Gonzalez. However, you can’t dispel the Red Sox from getting involved, especially if talks with Gonzalez break down.

YANKEES (15-to-1) – With Mark Teixeira locked up long term with a no-trade clause, it would be hard for the Yankees to get involved and with their rotation in shambles they need to focus on spending their money there for now.

GIANTS (18-to-1) – The Giants aren’t typically known for being big players in free agency, but their market and fan base can support the signing of Pujols and few teams on the list have a bigger need to add a big bat in the lineup.

RANGERS (20-to-1) – They were ready to break the bank for Cliff Lee and lost out. It’s going to be tough enough to keep Josh Hamilton around, so making a real run at Pujols is unlikely. However, they will likely at least strongly consider it.

ORIOLES (20-to-1) – A long shot to land Pujols, the Orioles need him more than any other team on the list. The team hasn’t been relevant in over a decade, but does boast great tradition. The franchise has some young talent and improving, but to compete in the AL East they need to make a big splash.

PHILLIES (25-to-1) – It is clear that Philly will shell out the cash, but with Ryan Howard locked up and no DH spot in the batting order they don’t appear to be a good fit.

BRAVES (30-to-1) – The team has several young pieces in place and resurfacing from a slight rebuild mode.  With Chipper Jones in the twilight, the club needs a new veteran to build around and lead the young team.  Pujols would be the perfect piece to put next to Jason Heyward for the next decade or so.

MLB st. louis cardinals, albert pujols, 2010 mlb offseason