Stats or dollars, Albert Pujols’ numbers are big

Albert Pujols’ tremendous second half has restored his value and his determination to match the $27.5 million a year that the Yankees gave Alex Rodriguez. . . .

Don’t be surprised if Ryan Braun steals some bases in the playoffs. He has been running well after recovering from an inflamed tendon behind his left knee, becoming the second 30/30 player in Brewers history. . . . The Yankees still are worried about Rodriguez’s left thumb. He has been using a split grip on the bat lately, with a layered O-ring of tape between his hands to protect his sprained thumb. Rodriguez could be dropped out of the cleanup spot in the playoffs because of fears teams will pitch around Robinson Cano. . . .

The St. Louis Cardinals’ blown save Thursday against the Mets revealed the flaw that probably will prevent them from making the playoffs. With Tony La Russa pushing for reinforcements, they sent Chris Perez to the Indians to get Mark DeRosa in 2009, and continue to pay a price for giving away a guy they had developed as a closer. . . .

Why is Miguel Cabrera taking ground balls at third base? There’s a chance the Detroit Tigers could play him there in the World Series, if they get there. That would be the only way to get Victor Martinez and Alex Avila in the lineup at the same time. . . .

The Washington Nationals are not going to pursue Prince Fielder, no matter how many rumors link them to him. The Nationals could open 2012 with Michael Morse in left field but look at him as their long-term first baseman. They also haven’t written off prospect Chris Marrero, who has looked good in September. . . .

Rawlings has adjusted Gold Glove voting to list outfielders by the position they play — left, center and right. AL voters will have their hands full separating center fielders Peter Bourjos, Jacoby Ellsbury, Curtis Granderson, Adam Jones and Austin Jackson.