Could the latest injuries to the Cardinals starting rotation make them more likely to pursue David Price?

The recent losses of Michael Wacha and Jaime Garcia have created a big hole in the Cardinals starting rotation.  Carlos Martinez will fill one of those spots, however, he has made just two big league starts and it remains to be seen how he will fare.  The other replacement is likely to be Tyler Lyons, who has a career 5.89 ERA as a starter.

Obviously, the Cardinals could use some help.

Which brings us back to David Price.

According to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times, "the Cardinals have been watching the Rays closely recently" and were among the teams watching Price pitch on June 20th.  Topkin also suggested that the Cards recent injuries could increase their interest in Price.

Of course, interest in the left handed ace will be high.  Topkin suggested that the Dodgers are likely the frontrunner to land Price, with the Giants, Braves, Angels, A's, Indians and the surprising Marlins also possibilities. 

However, despite recently losing Gavin Floyd to injury, Dave O'Brien of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution says that the Braves are unlikely to pursue Price. The Braves are already over budget and have a solid rotation with Julio Teheran, Mike Minor, Ervin Santana, Aaron Harang and Alex Wood.

Also, while you can never rule out the Rays trading Price within their own division, it would likely cost those teams, such as the Yankees, considerably more to acquire him.

Topkin also suggested that the Rays trade Price now, an idea echoed by Gary Shelton of the Tampa Bay Times.  Price is obviously unhappy in Tampa, what with the team in last place and the constant trade rumors.  Its best to move him now, especially before the market for the other top tier pitchers, such as Jeff Samardzija and Cliff Lee heats up.

Needless to say, the trade market just got a whole lot more interesting for the Cardinals and things could happen quickly.