St. Louis Cardinals have quietly emerged as one of the early surprises of the MLB season, racing to a 13-8 record through their first 21 games—their best start since 2018. While the results on the field suggest a team ready to compete, the front office’s long-term vision tells a different story.
Under the leadership of Chaim Bloom, the Cardinals remain firmly focused on rebuilding for the future. Despite their impressive start, the organization is widely expected to adopt a seller’s approach at the trade deadline, prioritizing long-term assets over immediate success.
Trade candidates begin to emerge
If St. Louis decides to sell, several players on expiring contracts could be moved to contenders seeking reinforcements. Names like Dustin May, Ramon Urias, JoJo Romero, and Ryne Stanek have already surfaced as potential trade chips.
However, the biggest storyline brewing in St. Louis revolves around a far more impactful name—closer Riley O’Brien.
Riley O’Brien could headline blockbuster move
According to ESPN’s David Schoenfield, O’Brien could become one of the most sought-after relievers on the market if St. Louis Cardinals choose to make him available.
“The Cardinals signed Dustin May to a one-year deal largely with the idea of potentially trading him if he was having a good season, but O’Brien will draw the most interest,” Schoenfield wrote. “A 31-year-old reliever who had a breakout season with a 2.06 ERA in 48 innings last year, he has been even better in 2026 with his sinker/sweeper/slider repertoire. O’Brien is throwing 98 mph and hasn’t issued a walk while serving as the Cardinals’ closer. He’s under team control for four more years, so there’s no need to trade him. But with the way he’s pitching, it could be an opportunity for the Cardinals to acquire a premium prospect for an older reliever they originally acquired for cash from the Mariners.”
O’Brien’s dominant form this season—combined with his team-friendly contract—makes him an extremely valuable asset. Notably, he has yet to allow an earned run, further elevating his stock across the league.
Market impact and future implications
If St. Louis Cardinals decide to move O’Brien, it could trigger a bidding war among contenders in need of bullpen help. His availability would instantly reshape the relief pitching market and potentially bring a significant haul of top-tier prospects back to St. Louis.
With organizational depth at the closer position and a clear emphasis on building for the future, the Cardinals are well-positioned to make a bold move that could redefine their trajectory.