STL Post-Dispatch: Cards, Eckstein are both shopping

Shortstop David Eckstein hit the open market late Monday night looking for an interested team, and the Cardinals will plunge into free agency today seeking a shortstop.

Both sides are letting their eyes wander while not ruling out the likelihood of a reunion.
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New Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak was at the office late Monday night contacting agents to set the table for detailed conversations today. Starting pitching remains a priority, but there are other needs to address. High on his shopping list is finding a shortstop.

“We’re going into it looking for a shortstop, and given the fact that David is out there, obviously we have him in mind,” Mozeliak said. “One of the things we’re doing internally is trying to get a feel for the supply and the demand of shortstops in this market. David probably is doing the same, and right now there doesn’t appear to be a lot of teams looking for shortstops.”
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Eckstein is the lone free agent shortstop who has been a regular starter in recent seasons. The Pirates have no plans to pick up the $5.85-million option on Cesar Izturis’ contract and will make the former Gold Glove winner a free agent later this week. The Cardinals will have interest when his availability is official. As far as free agents with recent major-league starting experience goes, those are the choices. The trade winds could yet yield an option.

CESAR IZTURIS?!??!?!  I realize the Cards have little $$$ to spend, and few minor league chips but….EWWWWW.