Albert Pujols thought he left San Francisco on Wednesday morning as little more than an unused player on the losing side of Tuesday night's All-Star Game. To his surprise, he landed in the middle of a firestorm. The former National League MVP and reigning Gold Glove first baseman reiterated his "disappointment" Wednesday about being the league's only position player not to play in the NL's 5-4 loss. But he dismissed any suggestion that the dubious distinction suggests a rift between him and Cardinals manager Tony La Russa. "Of course I was disappointed I didn't get in the game, but it's not a big deal," Pujols said after listening to various accounts alleging decay in his relationship with La Russa. "People are making a big deal about it, saying I don't respect Tony or that he disrespected me. Are you kidding?"