The San Diego Padres have emerged as the most serious suitor for Trevor Bauer ahead of the trade deadline, according to a source.

Bauer is under control through 2020 and the Padres are interested in making him the veteran anchor of their rotation.

The Padres could trade three young position players such as Franmil Reyes, Hunter Renfroe or Luis Urias in a deal with the Cleveland Indians.

A potential deal is complicated because the Indians have won five straight games and currently hold down one of the American League Wild Card spots.