The St. Louis Cardinals are exploring a possible contract extension with closer Jordan Hicks, according to a report.

An impending free agent, Hicks has been one of the top bullpen trade candidates this summer.

Hicks, 27, has a 3.67 ERA across 41 2/3 innings in 40 appearances this season. He's one of only two relievers with a strikeout rate north of 30% and a ground-ball rate exceeding 55%.