Trip to Angels Spring Training (Part 3)

Obviously, the talk of the 2012 Angels Spring Training camp is Albert Pujols. The Angels made the biggest splash in the 2012 Free Agent pool by bringing in the 3-time NL MVP. Combine that with the signing of left handed starter CJ Wilson, and Angels fans definitely have high expectations in 2012.

Each day I was in Tempe the parking lot was jam packed with Angels fans, looking to catch an up-close glimpse of the 2012 squad. Tailgaters and autograph seekers arrived as early as 7 a.m. for the 1 p.m. games.

Albert Pujols is certainly the star attraction, and the Angels front office seems to be doing everything they can to keep their star happy.

However, it seemed to me that Albert doesn't necessarily enjoy the spotlight. He is a very mild-mannered, kind, and quiet man.

While I was interviewing some of the former Kernels and current Angels, I had the opportunity to see Albert up-close. He did an interview for a local television station while I watched closely from the side. Angels personnel were close-by, as well, to make sure the television station didn't go over their allotted five minute interview time. I'm not sure if that time limit came from the Angels or Albert, but it seemed like it came from the Angels. They certainly don't want to upset Albert so early into the expensive marriage.

After the interview I had the chance to say hello to Albert, but that was all the access I was allowed. He walked down towards the batting cages, and even in that short instant, I could tell Albert is an extremely determined and regimented player. There is a lot of pressure from the outside resting upon Albert's massive shoulders this season, and I truly believe he wants to do everything in his power to bring a championship to Anaheim.

Inside the clubhouse I could see that Albert is a perfect fit with the Angels. The clubhouse has been filled for years with great ‘team guys,' and I think Albert just wants to fit in and play his game. Players like Torri Hunter and Howie Kendrick have fun-loving attitudes, which makes it easier for newcomers like Albert and CJ Wilson to join into.

My next entry will come next week. It will focus more on that easy-going Angels clubhouse and why Cedar Rapids plays a big role in that.

By: Morgan Hawk, Kernels radio broadcaster