NL Central Rival Reportedly Could Land Ex-Cardinals All-Star In Potential Deadline Deal

One former member of the Cardinals could be dealt to a rival

The St. Louis Cardinals likely won't end up winning the National League Central, but the division will be extremely competitive until the end of the regular season.

The Milwaukee Brewers currently sit atop the division with a 53-43 record, but the Cincinnati Reds aren't far behind with a 51-46 record of their own. Both clubs likely will be busy ahead of the trade deadline and the Reds reportedly could be a fit to trade former Cardinals and current Chicago White Sox pitcher Lance Lynn, according to The Athletic's Jim Bowden.

"To win the NL Central and prevail in what looks like it will be an epic pennant race with the Brewers, the Reds must trade for a veteran starting pitcher who can provide innings at the back of their rotation," Bowden said. "Lynn has a 6.06 ERA in 19 starts. However, he also has 133 strikeouts in 108 1/3 innings and a 4.97 FIP. Although the 36-year-old righty has been inconsistent, he’s allowed three runs or fewer in three of his past five starts and has averaged more than six innings per start over that span.

"He is an intense competitor but the asking price can’t be more than a couple of mid-level prospects considering the Reds would be taking on close to $4 million of his remaining salary. Lynn has an $18 million team option for 2024 ($1 million buyout) that is not expected to be picked up regardless of where he’s traded, whether it’s to the Reds, Rangers, Orioles or anyone else that’s in play."

Lynn began his career in the NL Central as a member of the Cardinals in 2011. He was a member of St. Louis' 2011 World Series-winning club and spent the first six seasons of his career with the organization. The two-time All-Star has bounced around since leaving St. Louis and has seen time with the New York Yankees, Minnesota Twins, Texas Rangers, and now the White Sox. Lynn made his most recent All-Star appearance with Chicago in 2021 and also was solid in 2022, but struggled to open the 2023 campaign. 

His numbers may not jump off the page with a 6.06 ERA, but he has looked better lately and likely will be on the move. Lynn has been linked to the Cardinals at points this season, but St. Louis likely will be sellers. Cincinnati needs another arm and Lynn has plenty of NL Central experience. 

More MLB: Yankees Reportedly Linked To Cardinals In Potential Trade Deadline Blockbuster Deal