"The need for a run producing left-handed hitter has become more urgent for the White Sox since the summer of 2008, when they identified minor-leaguer Colby Rasmus as a potential target.

But whether the Sox can pull off such a deal with St. Louis as quickly as they did in acquiring Mark Teahen two days after the 2009 World Series will depend on whether they can clear some high hurdles.

Ramsus, 24, fits the profile the Sox have been seeking since lacking production from the left side last season. Rasmus batted .276 with 23 home runs, 66 RBIs and 85 runs for the Cardinals last season.

He batted fifth throughout most of 2009, and Sox general manager Ken Williams said in a season-ending session with reporters that he was looking for a run producer in the middle of the order.

Rasmus also is considered an exceptional defensive center fielder, which would mean that Alex Rios could move to right field if Rasmus is acquired.

As for Sox right fielder Carlos Quentin, he would provide the production the Cardinals lacked in right field after trading Ryan Ludwick to San Diego as part of a three-way deal on July 31.

Although the Cardinals had a team official watching Sox and Cardinals prospects at Friday night's Arizona Fall League game between Surprise and the Peoria Saguaros, many issues would have to be resolved before such a deal could be finalized. "