(AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

WASHINGTON (AP) _ President Obama is hailing the World Series
champion St. Louis Cardinals as heroes _ and calling them the
``greatest comeback team in the history of baseball.''
At a White House ceremony Tuesday, the president recounted the
emotional roller-coaster that started with the Cardinals far back
in the playoff race and ended with their seven-game triumph over
the Texas Rangers in the Fall Classic last November. He also
praised the team for its public service ethic.
First lady Michelle Obama, celebrating her 48th birthday, took
part in the East Room event. But two key figures of the
championship season were absent. Manager Tony La Russa retired
after the series. And star Albert Pujols signed a $240 million
contract with the Los Angeles Angels in the off season.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)