Rasmus a trade target?

In his weekly live chat on STLtoday.com, Post-Dispatch baseball writer Joe Strauss confirmed that several teams are interested in pursuing Cardinals center fielder Colby Rasmus.

Here is Strauss' response to a reader's question about the potential for the Cardinals to make an "impact trade" this offseason:

"Like most clubs, the Cardinals are unlikely to make a significant trade during the postseason. Such moves are generally discouraged by MLB at this time and clubs are typically still formulating their postseason blueprint. However, a number of rivals aware of this year's clubhouse rub are prepared to make a strong push for Colby Rasmus this winter.

"GM John Mozeliak insists he is reluctant to part with Rasmus. But despite public comments by both parties, manager Tony La Russa's return could resurrect the issue within the organization.

"The Atlanta Braves, who possess a bunch of young talent including closer-in-waiting Craig Kimbrell, have strong interest in Rasmus. The Toronto Blue Jays are also intrigued. In other words, the Cardinals will have ample opportunity to turn down trade offers on Rasmus in upcoming weeks and months. Given the team's inability to deal Pujols, Lohse, Holliday and Carpenter due to contractual language and their refusal to deal young arms such as Wainwright and Garcia, Rasmus represents the leading option for an "impact" trade.

"The Arizona Diamondbacks ranked 6th, 9th and 14th in production at the three OF positions and also have interest in Rasmus. In a rebuilding mode, the Diamondbacks feature the middle infield of Stephen Drew and Kelly Johnson. Drew is second-time arbitration-eligible and a Boras client. Johnson is a free agent after next season and would likely be part of an expanded deal for Rasmus.

"Rasmus' low salary ($418,000) also makes him a trading chip for a small-market club that could fill another pressing need.

"For a variety of reasons, Rasmus will almost certainly be in play."

To read the transcript of the entire Strauss chat, click here.