Kearns is likely to be available
Dunn and Albert Pujols are the game's two most prolific young power hitters. Kearns, now in the minor leagues, is considered most likely to be dealt. He was among the NL leaders in almost every important offensive category before reliever Ray King, then with Atlanta, landed on him at the plate in May 2003. A capable right fielder, Kearns suffered a shoulder dislocation and major structural damage, became out of shape and hasn't been the same player since. Few doubt he eventually will return as a force.
Two summers ago Jocketty settled for Mike DeJean and Sterling Hitchcock with his pitching-poor team in a losing battle with the Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros. Ownership then told Jocketty he was unable to significantly raise payroll. This year the Cardinals project 3.4 million attendance after originally budgeting for 3.1 million, which should provide about $8 million of additional revenue.
Dunn makes $6 million this season and will probably approach $9 million through arbitration next winter. Without addressing Dunn by name, Jocketty acknowledges he is equipped to pursue a high-dollar player.
The Reds, Texas Rangers and Tampa Bay Devil Rays appear the most obvious targets to provide outfield help.
Destined for last place, the Devil Rays have no postseason aspirations and may be willing to part with Aubrey Huff, who has suffered a power drain this year after hitting 86 home runs the previous three seasons.
The Rangers see themselves as a wild card contender, but not with their current pitching staff. Kevin Mench, David Dellucci and Laynce Nix allow the Rangers a surplus to deal for pitching.
To better themselves now, the Rangers require a major-league starter.