Jake Peavy rumors: Cardinals keeping him on "back burner"

The St. Louis Cardinals haven't ruled out acquiring veteran right-hander Jake Peavy. According to Nick Cafardo of The Boston Globe, the Red Sox' starter is still on the Cardinals' "back burner" as a potential acquisition.

Earlier this month, it appeared to be a foregone conclusion that Peavy would end up in St. Louis, as a deal appeared imminent. However, nothing ever came to fruition, and Peavy's market has since cooled as the Red Sox' recent surge has led some to believe they may not be sellers in the coming week.

The Cardinals' rotation has long been viewed as an organizational strength, but injuries have cut into their depth this season. Having already lost Michael Wacha and Jaime Garcia, St. Louis could use another starter, and as just a half-season rental, Peavy would seem to be an ideal fit.

The Braves have also demonstrated interest in Peavy, and the Giants have been speculated as a possible landing spot as well, especially now that Matt Cain is on the DL.

The 33-year-old Peavy is in the midst of a down season, with a 4.59 ERA, 4.72 FIP, 2.16 K/BB, and 0.2 WAR in 117.2 innings. He was much better last year, posting a 100 ERA+, 3.96 FIP, and 3.36 K/BB in 144.2 innings. He has about $7 million remaining on his current deal, which expires at the end of the season, as his 2015 player option only activates if he reaches certain innings thresholds that are nearly impossible at this point.