The Cardinals' decision to acquire Riley O'Brien in a small trade in November 2023 was a strategic move that has paid off. O'Brien, who was about to become a minor league free agent, has emerged as a key player for the team, particularly in the closer's role. With a 2.70 ERA and 12 saves in 20 innings this year, O'Brien's success is a significant factor in the Cardinals' current performance. His strong arsenal, including a sinker averaging 98.4 mph and a sweeper at 83.8 mph, has contributed to his impressive results. However, the question remains: what should the Cardinals do with O'Brien moving forward? Personally, I think the Cardinals have a strong case for keeping O'Brien around. He is under club control for four more seasons after this one, and his performance this year, with a 29.5% strikeout rate, 2.6% walk rate, and 62% ground ball rate, is a clear indication of his potential as a high-end reliever. While reliever performance can be erratic, O'Brien's current success and the team's need for a reliable closer make a strong argument for keeping him. However, the Cardinals' front office may be inclined to sell, with players like Lars Nootbaar, JoJo Romero, Dustin May, Nolan Gorman, and Alec Burleson being potential trade candidates. The deadline in August could be a pivotal moment for the team, as they decide whether to cash in on O'Brien's current success or build for the future. The Cardinals' plan to evaluate less-established players this season adds another layer of complexity to the decision-making process. As the team navigates the challenges of the season, the future of O'Brien remains an intriguing question mark, with many factors at play.
