As the Los Angeles Dodgers continue their push toward a potential third consecutive World Series title, the franchise is expected to be one of the most aggressive buyers ahead of the MLB trade deadline. While Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal remains their primary target, new reports suggest the team is also evaluating alternative pitching options especially if a deal for Skubal fails to materialize.
According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, one intriguing fallback option for Los Angeles could be St. Louis Cardinals right-hander Riley O’Brien, who has quietly generated interest across the league as a versatile bullpen arm with late-inning potential.
Passan noted that O’Brien could serve multiple roles for a contending club, writing that he could be used as “insurance for injured closer Edwin Díaz” while also projecting as a possible long-term replacement for veteran reliever Blake Treinen. His “filthy sinker-slider combination,” as described in the report, has made him an appealing option for teams seeking bullpen upgrades.
Despite already ranking sixth in MLB with a 3.21 ERA out of the bullpen, the Dodgers remain concerned about depth, particularly with key relievers like Edwin Díaz currently sidelined. Given their championship expectations, Los Angeles is expected to prioritize pitching reinforcements capable of delivering in high-pressure postseason situations.
O’Brien has been one of the more efficient arms in St. Louis’ bullpen this season. Through 27 appearances in 2026, he has posted a 3.95 ERA alongside a strong 29-to-6 strikeout-to-walk ratio, demonstrating improved control and consistency. His breakout came during the 2025 campaign, where he recorded a standout 2.06 ERA with a 45-to-22 K/BB mark, establishing himself as a reliable late-inning option.
While the Cardinals currently sit at 32–28 and remain competitive, league expectations still lean toward them being in a transitional phase. As a result, rival executives believe St. Louis could prioritize long-term value at the deadline, potentially using bullpen assets like O’Brien to strengthen their farm system.
The Dodgers, meanwhile, are expected to remain heavily involved in the pitching market. If their pursuit of Skubal intensifies but ultimately falls short, O’Brien could emerge as a realistic and cost-effective pivot option capable of bolstering their postseason bullpen depth.
With the trade deadline approaching, O’Brien’s name is now one to watch as contending teams weigh elite starters against reliable bullpen upgrades in their championship push.
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