Following back-to-back losing seasons and five playoff misses in the last nine years, the St. Louis Cardinals appear poised to embark on a rebuild.

This could involve trading away key players like pitcher Sonny Gray, who recently signed a three-year extension. Should Gray be moved, the Cardinals may look to their past for a replacement.

Michael Wacha, who debuted with St. Louis in 2013 and was a postseason hero as a rookie, is expected to opt out of his contract with the Kansas City Royals after a resurgent season.

The 33-year-old right-hander would provide the Cardinals with a reliable veteran presence and a potential replacement for Gray in the starting rotation. A ground ball specialist known for his ability to eat innings, Wacha could be a good fit for a return to the organization where he first made his mark in the majors.