Report: Cardinals nearing deal with Korean closer Seung-hwan Oh

Several teams around the majors have bolstered their bullpens this offseason, and the St. Louis Cardinals could be next.

The Cardinals are showing "serious interest" in Korean closer Seung-hwan Oh, according to Daum's Daniel Kim.

One of the most effective relievers in the Korean Baseball Organization, Oh is believed to have already boarded a flight for the United States to meet with team executives. He'll reportedly take a physical Monday, and depending on the outcome, could officially sign with the team soon.

The 33-year-old righty, nicknamed "The Final Boss," recorded 41 saves for the Hanshin Tigers last season, and boasts a 1.81 ERA and 0.85 WHIP across 646 1/3 career innings. He's come under fire lately, though, for his involvement in an illegal gambling scandal.

Cardinals relievers posted a combined 2.82 ERA (third in majors) and held opponents to a .242 batting average (15th) last season.

St. Louis submitted a blind bid for Korean slugger Byung Ho Park earlier this offseason, but were trumped by the Minnesota Twins for exclusive negotiating rights with the first baseman.