The announcement on Tuesday comes a day after Pujols won his second NL MVP award.

Pujols' reputation, plus a significant financial investment that was not disclosed, is expected to boost St. Louis' chances of winning a franchise in 2011.

"I am very proud and excited to join the effort to bring Major League Soccer to the St. Louis area," Pujols said in a statement.

"This means a lot to me and my family, as we all love soccer and we believe in MLS."