MLB Trade Rumors: Padres Making Push For Cardinals' Ryan Ludwick

On the day of the trade deadline, the Padres are apparently making an effort to add some power to their lineup in the form of outfielder Ryan Ludwick. FanHouse's Tom Krasovic tweets:

Heard this from NL club: Padres are deep into talks to get Cardinals OF Ryan Ludwick. Good power bat.

This is one of the first rumors we've heard that involves two teams in the playoff hunt. The Padres lead the N.L. West and hold the best record in the National League thanks to their pitching. Save for Adrian Gonzalez, though, they don't have anyone in their lineup with an OPS greater than .800.

The 32-year-old Ludwick is signed to a one-year deal. This season, he's hitting .281 with 11 home runs and an .827 OPS. At this point, it's unclear who or what the Cardinals, who hold a slim lead in the N.L. Central, would get in return.

For more, check out our Padres blog, Gaslamp Ball, and our Cardinals blog, Viva El Birdos.