Here we are at the halfway point of the 2025 season, and if you’re looking for clarity about what the Cardinals are — buyer or seller, contender or retooler — well, keep looking. Because right now, St. Louis still hasn’t committed to a direction. And that indecision is casting a big shadow over the trade deadline, where one name stands out above all the speculation: Ryan Helsley. The fire-breathing closer has been one of the best in the game this year, and if the Cardinals decide to sell, he could bring back a serious return. But that begs the question — if Helsley goes, who closes for the Cards?
Who Closes if Ryan Helsley is Dealt?
There are whispers. There are rumors. But there’s one name that’s quietly building momentum in the background: Riley O’Brien.
Yes, that Riley O’Brien — the 30-year-old right-hander St. Louis picked up from Seattle for cash back in late 2023. He came in under the radar, and injuries kept him shelved for much of last season and even into spring training this year. Flexor tendon trouble, stop-and-start rehab — it was unclear if he’d ever find a role.
But now? He’s healthy. He’s dealing. And indeed he’s very much in the conversation.
Could Riley O’Brien be Who Closes for the Cards?
O’Brien hasn’t allowed a single run in his last eight outings. He’s logged 9.2 innings, struck out 10, and while the five walks in that stretch raise a little concern, his stuff has been electric. The data backs it up. His Stuff+ score — a stat that evaluates the raw quality of pitches — clocks in at 114 (league average is 100), second only to Helsley in the Cardinals’ bullpen.
Can Riley O’Brien stay with the big club?
And his fastball? It’s no joke. O’Brien averages 97.8 mph with elite extension — meaning he releases the ball closer to home plate than most, giving hitters even less time to react. That combo makes him a nightmare in late innings.
He’s not some 22-year-old phenom, either. At 30, what you see is likely what you get. But what you’re seeing right now is a pitcher with a closer’s arsenal and late-inning fearlessness. And for a guy the Cardinals essentially got for free? That’s a steal.
So if Ryan Helsley does get moved in the coming weeks — and that’s still a big if — Riley O’Brien might be the surprise name who closes for the Cards. Quietly, methodically, he’s earning that trust. And if you haven’t noticed yet, it might be time to start paying attention.
