Sports Illustrated's Jon Heyman reported on Thursday afternoon that the St. Louis Cardinals are pursuing free agent infielder Alex Gonzalez. Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal, citing his own source, later confirmed Heyman's initial report:

Source: #Brewers, #SFGiants, #STLCards "all in play" on A. Gonzalez, confirming report by @SI_JonHeyman. #MLB

St. Louis' middle infield situation is unsettled, and although the team would like to have Rafael Furcal back for another season, his price may be a problem, especially considering the potential weight of a big Albert Pujols contract. Gonzalez represents a more inexpensive solution.

Gonzalez spent the 2011 season with the Atlanta Braves, where he hit .241/.270/.372 with 16 home runs and 55 RBI. The 34-year-old shortstop is a career .247/.291/.399 hitter.

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