That positioning keeps the Cardinals as potential sellers at the trade deadline, especially when it comes to players on expiring contracts. Names such as Dustin May, Ramon Urias, JoJo Romero, and Ryne Stanek are among those who could be moved as the team weighs its long-term priorities.
A different angle could emerge if St. Louis finds itself well out of contention: Riley O’Brien has drawn trade interest. ESPN’s David Schoenfield highlighted the 31-year-old closer as a prime trade candidate, noting his breakout showing last season (2.06 ERA in 48 innings) and his continued dominance in 2026, with a fastball/slider mix, elite velocity at 98 mph, and zero walks.
O’Brien’s contract status—four years of team control—gives the Cardinals substantial leverage. While he could fetch premium prospects if the team decides to sell, the Padres are unlikely to part with Mason Miller, which could influence how far the market goes for St. Louis’ closer. Still, O’Brien could stand as the top reliever available at the deadline, potentially catalyzing a bidding war.
Even with close-to-home needs, the Cardinals could benefit from added pitching depth in their system, especially amid ongoing injuries. If O’Brien goes, the club could still cover the closer role internally, mitigating the impact of a departure while replenishing the farm with high-end prospects.
As the season unfolds, O’Brien’s performance and the Cardinals’ overall standing will largely determine whether he becomes the market-shaping trade chip this summer. The dynamic underscores how a strong start can coexist with a strategic, futures-focused approach at the deadline.
