Kyle Lohse declines qualifying offer from Cardinals, now a free agent

St. Louis Cardinals right hander Kyle Lohse has declined the team's $13.3 million qualifying offer, according to an announcement by the team. The Cardinals will be compensated with a draft pick should Lohse sign with another club.

Lohse, who is one of the top starting pitchers available on the free agent market, went 16-3 with a 2.86 ERA in 33 starts for the Cardinals during the 2012 season.

The 34-year-old is reportedly seeking the stability of a multi-year deal, but the Cardinal do not appear interested in offering him such a commitment. The team did not discuss a contract extension with the right hander during the season despite Lohse expressing an interest in doing so.

Armed with an impressive stable of young arms including Shelby Miller, Trevor Rosenthal and Joe Kelly -- all of whom are under contract for 2013 -- it would appear that the Cardinals are ready for an amicable split with Lohse.