Oswalt_Roy_03
Despite popular reports on Tuesday that the Phillies were close to a deal for Oswalt, that would possibly send Jayson Werth to Tampa as part of a three-team trade, it now appears that the Cardinals are the leading candidate for the Astros' ace.

NBC Hardball Talk is reporting that the Cardinals and Astros have been in discussion for several days, and that Oswalt would prefer going to St. Louis because he's a "midwest guy."

The sticking point in this negotiation, like it is with the Phillies, is that Oswalt wants the Cardinals to pick up his $16 million 2012 option.  The Cardinals and Phillies are both reported to have balked at that request, but Oswalt is apparently more willing to work with the Cards.  Jerk.

So, not only are they taking it to the Phillies on the field this week, the Cardinals might be taking it to them off the field as well.

Of course, this stuff changes by the minute leading up to the trade deadline.  By this afternoon, the Phillies could be back in front, or even someone else.