Cardinals targeting Max Scherzer, David Price, Cole Hamels

The Cardinals have been quiet since acquiring Jason Heyward and Jordan Walden from the Braves in November, but their offseason may heat up in a big way soon. According to a report from Ken Rosenthal and Jon Paul Morosi of FOXSports.com, the team is exploring the possibility of adding a high-end starting pitcher, with free-agent Max Scherzer and trade candidates Cole Hamels and David Price on their radar.

Rosenthal and Morosi note that the Cardinals are not close to a deal for any of the three pitchers, and that they are simply in the exploration stage of their search. They are coveting left-handers as they look to upgrade their rotation, though Scherzer's status as a St. Louis native makes him seem like a solid fit, as well.

Currently, the Cardinals have Lance Lynn, Adam Wainwright, John Lackey, Michael Wacha and Carlos Martinez slotted into their rotation, but speculation among baseball circles has led many to believe that they would look to add a starter as the offseason progressed. Hamels may be at the top of their list, and as Rosenthal and Morosi report, the lefty would welcome a trade to St. Louis despite his limited no-trade clause.