The St. Louis Cardinals have found consistency at the end of games with closer Riley O’Brien, who has not allowed an earned run in his first 10 appearances this season, according to an April 17 announcement.
O’Brien’s performance is significant for a team that has experienced ups and downs from its bullpen throughout the year. His reliability provides much-needed assurance during close games, especially after major changes to the pitching staff last season.
O’Brien joined the Cardinals from the Seattle Mariners in November 2023. Although he spent much of the following year on the injured list, he became a key reliever in 2025 by posting a 2.06 ERA over 42 appearances. The Cardinals traded several veteran pitchers at the 2025 Trade Deadline, including former closer Ryan Helsley, which gave O’Brien an opportunity to step into high-pressure situations.
Since then, O’Brien has maintained strong results with a combined 1.72 ERA over his last 30 games between late-2025 and early-2026. He has increased his strikeout rate to more than 31 percent this year and now ranks among league leaders for ground-ball production and whiff percentage on his sinker pitch.
O’Brien’s improved performance comes from adjustments such as increasing his sinker usage—especially against right-handed hitters—and making his sweeper pitch a primary breaking ball again. His command remains something to watch moving forward; however, he has yet to issue a walk this season.
Together with JoJo Romero—who is tied for second-most scoreless innings among relievers—the Cardinals’ bullpen appears well-positioned for late-game situations.
