ST. LOUIS (KMOX) -- Baseball star Albert Pujols may have reunited with the St. Louis Cardinals, but he's leaving his wife of 22 years.
The slugger released a statement Monday confirming he and Deidre Pujols are divorcing, and admits the timing does not appear ideal, right after his wife underwent brain surgery. He says the split "wasn't something that happened overnight."
The couple have 5 children.
Pujols' complete statement:
"I’ve been asked a lot of questions over the past few days regarding what’s been going on at home and sadly, after 22 years of marriage, I have made the decision to file for divorce from my wife, Deidre. I realize this is not the most opportune time with Opening Day approaching and other family events that have recently taken place. These situations are never easy and isn’t something that just happened overnight. As a devout Christian, this is an outcome that I never wanted to see happen. For many long days and nights, I prayed, asking the Lord for His guidance. I am thankful for the five beautiful children that we brought into this world and remain committed to raising them in a loving and safe environment. I ask that you please respect our privacy and the privacy of our five children during this time."