St. Louis Cardinals star Albert Pujols honored at Beck rally for off-field charitable works

Baseball star Albert Pujols honored at Beck rally

WASHINGTON — Baseball star Albert Pujols (POO’-hohlz) of the St. Louis Cardinals says he’s honored and humbled after receiving an award for his off-field charitable work during Glenn Beck’s rally in Washington.

Pujols says he thanks God for giving him a platform through a high-profile career — and says that allows him to be more than just being a player.

Pujols has set up a foundation that helps people with Down syndrome and assist the poor in the Dominican Republic.

Pujols’ manager, Tony La Russa, says heroes often are seen as products of movies, television and fiction books, but there are real-life ones.

La Russa says Pujols has had amazing accomplishments in baseball, but what makes him so special is his commitment to his family, faith and community.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Baseball star Albert Pujols (POO’-hohlz) of the St. Louis Cardinals says he’s honored and humbled after receiving an award for his off-field charitable work during Glenn Beck’s rally in Washington.

Pujols says he thanks God for giving him a platform through a high-profile career — and says that allows him to be more than just being a player.

Pujols has set up a foundation that helps people with Down syndrome and assist the poor in the Dominican Republic.

Pujols’ manager, Tony LaRussa, says heroes often are seen as products of movies, television and fiction books, but there are real-life ones.

LaRussa says Pujols has had amazing accomplishments in baseball, but what makes him so special is his commitment to his family, faith and community.

(This version corrects LaRussa to La Russa.)