The St. Louis Cardinals traded for Jason Heyward last offseason, planning to use the 2015 season as time to evaluate whether or not they should re-sign the outfielder.

Word is that St. Louis aspires to re-sign Heyward, even though they recognize it might take another team to help frame his value.

"This is ideal for a player like myself," Heyward said. "They show a lot of appreciation for me. Whether it's hitting two home runs in one game or throwing somebody out to win a game or making a play running the bases, just hustling. I'm trying to do anything to win and people see that. That's what they care about. They're not looking at overall statistics. There are a few (teams) that would fit me, and here is one of them. That stands out. For me, it stands out especially."

Entering Saturday, Heyward leads the team with a .288 average and 23 steals.

"He's been an extraordinarily important part of this club," John Mozeliak said. "You think about where we are today with (seven) games left in the season – his contributions have been extremely positive."

Mozeliak went on to say Heyward is "hitting free agency at a very unique time."