The Cardinals took their first step Monday toward retaining free-agent outfielder Marcell Ozuna when they made a one-year, qualifying offer of $17.8 million to him, ensuring they will receive a compensatory draft pick should Ozuna sign elsewhere for next season.
But a source said that the Cardinals had talked recently with Ozuna’s new agent, Melvin Roman, and that the sides planned to meet in the next 10 days to see if a multiyear deal can be found that is agreeable to both parties. Until this year, Ozuna had Scott Boras as his agent.
Players who received qualifying offers have until Nov.