Albert Pujols says he supports Mark McGwire

St. Louis Cardinals slugger Albert Pujols told the Associated Press today that he has offered his support to hitting coach Mark McGwire.

Pujols said he told McGwire he was proud of him for admitting last week that he used steroids during his career and that he's looking forward to working with him in spring training.

The National League MVP also said he doesn't believe McGwire's admission is an effort to bolster his chances of making the Hall of Fame.

McGwire, who made his first public appearance Sunday since disclosing his steroid use, told reporters "everybody makes mistakes in their lives and it's the biggest regret of my life."

-- Austin Knoblauch

Photo: Albert Pujols hits a single in Game 2 of the National League division series against the Dodgers on Oct. 8. Credit: Mark J. Terrill / Associated Press