Free-agent outfielder Dexter Fowler is close to switching from the Cubs to the rival Cardinals.
St. Louis television station KSDK (and later MLB.com) reported Thursday night that Fowler will undergo a physical exam Friday in St. Louis, a precursor to an agreement.
MORE: MLB free-agent tracker
There is no word yet on the framework of Fowler's contract, but ESPN.com reported it's expected to be in the range of four years and $60 million.
Fowler, 30, is fresh off helping the Cubs win their first World Series since 1908. He batted .276/.393/.447 with 13 homers, 48 RBIs and 13 steals in 125 games.
Should Fowler pass the physical and complete the deal, the two teams would have essentially made a trade spanning two offseasons. Jason Heyward left the Cardinals for Chicago last year, and St. Louis would return the favor by prying Fowler away from the Cubs.
Fowler projects to start in center field for the Cardinals. He is in the discussion as one of the major leagues' better all-around outfielders over the past three seasons.
Outfielders to have at least a .360 OBP & 40 SB over the last 3 seasons:
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) December 8, 2016
Mike Trout
A.J. Pollock
Christian Yelich
Dexter Fowler
Adam Eaton