Riley O’Brien, a right-handed reliever, is a candidate to play a more significant role in the Cardinals bullpen this season.
Cardinals Reliever Might Be a Hidden Gem for Late Game Situations
O’Brien, 29, was acquired from the Seattle Mariners before the beginning of the 2024 season. He made the Opening Day roster following a strong performance in Spring Training but was injured for several months as a result of a flexor strain. Ultimately, he missed most of the 2024 season, appearing in only 8 games.
However, his velocity and power movement indicate that he might be able to rebound successfully in 2025.
O’Brien’s Career
O’Brien was originally drafted in the 7th round of the 2017 Draft by the Tampa Bay Rays. After bouncing around multiple organizations, he made his major-league debut as a starter with the Cincinnati Reds.
Although he has only 10.1 major-league innings under his belt, O’Brien’s minor league statistics have shown promise. In his last full season 2023, with Seattle’s Triple-A affiliate, he posted a 2.29 ERA in 55.0 IP. While this was mostly in relief, he also served as a spot starter for the team, showcasing his potential versatility.
According to Baseball Savant, he features a sinker with an average velocity of 96.8 mph, as well as a slider and a curveball. Both of his breaking pitches show above-average numbers in horizontal movement, and both have the potential to be lethal strikeout pitches for the right-hander.
Riley O’Brien has yet to give up a run in 3 appearances so far this spring. Here are his best pitches from today. pic.twitter.com/Uvr9gsa4HC
— Kareem (@KareemSSN) March 1, 2024
In addition, his 6’4″ frame allows him to extend further towards the plate. In the data available from his major-league performance, he is in the 93rd percentile among all MLB pitchers in that category.
O’Brien has been highly effective in the past. Although injuries have limited him, the Cardinals hope that he will rebound in the 2025 season.
Where Does He Fit Into the Bullpen?
As the Cardinals approach a youth movement in 2025, their front office has looked to cut costs wherever possible. From refusing to sign Paul Goldschmidt to actively shopping Nolan Arenado, all signs point to the Cardinals not bringing many external options to the roster this offseason.
Therefore, all of the players who remain on the roster, including O’Brien, will be expected to play a larger role in 2025.
In addition, Andrew Kittredge, who was their set-up man for much of last year, is a free agent. While the Cardinals have not ruled out re-signing him, he seems unlikely to return.
Although O’Brien’s performance was sub-par after his return from injury last season, this can likely be explained by a lack of command following such a lengthy absence. Through 8.0 innings, he allowed 8 walks, a number far higher than his career 4.5 BB/9 in the minor leagues.
It is likely that standout relievers Jojo Romero and Ryan Fernandez will get the first looks for late-inning appearances. However, as the season wears on, the Cardinals will be forced to look to unlikely players to fill innings.
Riley O’Brien can and should be an option in 2025.
Main Photo Credits: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images
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