I have observed his change of aproach over the last 3 years, becoming pull-happy and determined to smack homers. He is far less patient up there, trying to do too much. He dives at balls outside, and his strike outs are more frequent.
Yesterday he had the worst day of his CAREER at the plate. 0 for 5 with 3 GIDP. He was responsible for 8 of the teams 27 outs, and the only position player not to reach base.
Last year his BA dipped below .300 late in the season, and he finished the year 20 points below his career ave.
I think the Cardinals were smart not to give him that monster 10 year deal that he wanted. He is clearly beginning the down side of his career. At 31 (35 in Dominican years) it looks to me that he only has 2 or 3 decent years left in him.
I know the season is young, but Albert is not.