Bloom on the course for this season

[ClassicO]

Abdicating responsibility to win this season for HOPES of better chances in the future is stupid. This year might be that lightening in the bottle and every “perfect” year in the future could be disappointments. Is he here to win or write the script of some narrative in his head? No one saying trade away every viable prospect for a vet but making one move that could help push this team in to the playoffs shouldn’t be so easily dismissed the first of MAY. There are no guarantees with any of this. If 2026 is the Cards season then play to WIN

You've nailed it with this unique concept that a team should try to "WIN." .

I'm sure Bloom would love to have your insight.

PS - would you rather win more games this year and reduce the chance to win the World Series in future years? Not I. It's all about the ring. Bloom's plan is designed for that. Just a guess, but I think you're heavily in debt.

[hugeCardfan]

Bloom isn't going to stray from the L-T plan.

He'll deal D. May and likely Noot, JoJo and O'Brien.

That said, this should NOT PREVENT him from adding a bullpen piece or two via trades that don't involve players he see's having a role in the L-T plan.

I'm NOT Talking a high priced closer or $12M A. Miller type or (gulp) B. Cecil, rather a P. Maton or JoJo type who came at a low cost.

Sorry rock. I think you are dead wrong about O'Brien. Makes no sense to release the best reliever on the team with 5 years of control.

No sweat HC

The reason you deal O'Brien is 1) with all the injuries around MLB to closers he'll be a super hot commodity, 2) he's got four years of control after this season meaning the return could be really good and 3) he's going to be 32 yrs before STing opens in 2027 meaning he doesn't fit the L-T plan.

Of course he fits the long term plan rock. He is cheap and has 5 years of contract control. That's the very definition of the long term plan.

Age?

As of early May 2026, several veteran relievers aged 33 or older are leading or competing for closing roles, relying on experience, high-velocity, and proven track records.

[Aroldis Chapman (38 years old, Red Sox): Turned back the clock to become "fantasy gold" in 2025, elite in 2026, and is considered one of the best closers in the league due to improved command and continued high velocity.

[Raisel Iglesias (36 years old, Braves): Despite being in his mid-30s, he remains a top-tier closer, starting the 2026 season with multiple saves and a 0.00 ERA through his first few appearances.

[Kenley Jansen (38 years old, Tigers): Approaching 500 career saves, the veteran continues to be a reliable, high-leverage option in 2026.

[Carlos Estévez (33 years old, Royals): A key 2025 saves leader who entered his age-33 season with strong expectations to continue closing for Kansas City.

[Kyle Finnegan (34 years old, Tigers/Nationals): Recorded 38 saves in 2025 and continued to be a proven closer option in 2026.

[Trevor Megill (32-33 years old, Brewers): While he was 32 at the end of 2025, his role as a primary 2025 closer and 2026 contender places him among this veteran group.

At some point, trading veterans for prospects is just kicking the can down the road. Sure a player could get hurt, but, you keep players for their utility and hope they stay healthy. You don't trade them because they could get hurt.

I hear the argument for getting blown away in a trade. Teams don't usually trade their future for a current need. They trade from their excess and that doesn't lend so much to being "blown away". Don't trade a really effective current player with 5 years of control for prospects...or loaners.

It isn't like we won't be competitive for a couple years. We have players who are ready to compete now. Finally Walker, Gorman and Herrera have traction. Church is turning heads. Winn, Weatherholt are great defensively and getting it done offensively. Burleson too. Catching is there and beating down the door. The last thing we want to do is undermine the one weakness...pitching. Sure, trade the veterans closing on FA...Nootbarr, Romero etc. Not our stud closer. What do ya hate about 19 K's and one BB?

Not to nitpick, but I wouldn’t lump Gorman in with Walker/Herrera as “gaining traction”. Gorman’s OPS+ is 90, the same as it was last year and basically the same as 2024. He’s still stinking offensively.

OK. But, he has cut back on his strike outs, quadrupled his full year WAR from '24, doubled his full year WAR from '25 and well ahead of rbi pace any of his years. His defense is also holding up well. I think there is some traction there.

[Futuregm2]

Bloom isn't going to stray from the L-T plan.

He'll deal D. May and likely Noot, JoJo and O'Brien.

That said, this should NOT PREVENT him from adding a bullpen piece or two via trades that don't involve players he see's having a role in the L-T plan.

I'm NOT Talking a high priced closer or $12M A. Miller type or (gulp) B. Cecil, rather a P. Maton or JoJo type who came at a low cost.

Sorry rock. I think you are dead wrong about O'Brien. Makes no sense to release the best reliever on the team with 5 years of control.

No sweat HC

The reason you deal O'Brien is 1) with all the injuries around MLB to closers he'll be a super hot commodity, 2) he's got four years of control after this season meaning the return could be really good and 3) he's going to be 32 yrs before STing opens in 2027 meaning he doesn't fit the L-T plan.

Of course he fits the long term plan rock. He is cheap and has 5 years of contract control. That's the very definition of the long term plan.

Age?

As of early May 2026, several veteran relievers aged 33 or older are leading or competing for closing roles, relying on experience, high-velocity, and proven track records.

[Aroldis Chapman (38 years old, Red Sox): Turned back the clock to become "fantasy gold" in 2025, elite in 2026, and is considered one of the best closers in the league due to improved command and continued high velocity.

[Raisel Iglesias (36 years old, Braves): Despite being in his mid-30s, he remains a top-tier closer, starting the 2026 season with multiple saves and a 0.00 ERA through his first few appearances.

[Kenley Jansen (38 years old, Tigers): Approaching 500 career saves, the veteran continues to be a reliable, high-leverage option in 2026.

[Carlos Estévez (33 years old, Royals): A key 2025 saves leader who entered his age-33 season with strong expectations to continue closing for Kansas City.

[Kyle Finnegan (34 years old, Tigers/Nationals): Recorded 38 saves in 2025 and continued to be a proven closer option in 2026.

[Trevor Megill (32-33 years old, Brewers): While he was 32 at the end of 2025, his role as a primary 2025 closer and 2026 contender places him among this veteran group.

At some point, trading veterans for prospects is just kicking the can down the road. Sure a player could get hurt, but, you keep players for their utility and hope they stay healthy. You don't trade them because they could get hurt.

I hear the argument for getting blown away in a trade. Teams don't usually trade their future for a current need. They trade from their excess and that doesn't lend so much to being "blown away". Don't trade a really effective current player with 5 years of control for prospects...or loaners.

It isn't like we won't be competitive for a couple years. We have players who are ready to compete now. Finally Walker, Gorman and Herrera have traction. Church is turning heads. Winn, Weatherholt are great defensively and getting it done offensively. Burleson too. Catching is there and beating down the door. The last thing we want to do is undermine the one weakness...pitching. Sure, trade the veterans closing on FA...Nootbarr, Romero etc. Not our stud closer. What do ya hate about 19 K's and one BB?

Not to nitpick, but I wouldn’t lump Gorman in with Walker/Herrera as “gaining traction”. Gorman’s OPS+ is 90, the same as it was last year and basically the same as 2024. He’s still stinking offensively.

OK. But, he has cut back on his strike outs, quadrupled his full year WAR from '24, doubled his full year WAR from '25 and well ahead of rbi pace any of his years. His defense is also holding up well. I think there is some traction there.

His RBI pace has a lot to do with hitting behind the top 4 hitters in the lineup. His ISO is the worst of his career (and has been on a decline for seemingly every year). He’s a bottom half third baseman offensively and his defense has been a pleasant surprise. Total opposite of what I expected from him when he came up in the system. It’s hard for me to get excited about him though when hasn’t had an OPS above .700 since 2023. That 2023 season is now starting to look like a total outlier as his other 4 years in the MLB has been .721 or worse OPS wise.

[rockondlouie]

Bloom isn't going to stray from the L-T plan.

He'll deal D. May and likely Noot, JoJo and O'Brien.

That said, this should NOT PREVENT him from adding a bullpen piece or two via trades that don't involve players he see's having a role in the L-T plan.

I'm NOT Talking a high priced closer or $12M A. Miller type or (gulp) B. Cecil, rather a P. Maton or JoJo type who came at a low cost.

Sorry rock. I think you are dead wrong about O'Brien. Makes no sense to release the best reliever on the team with 5 years of control.

No sweat HC

The reason you deal O'Brien is 1) with all the injuries around MLB to closers he'll be a super hot commodity, 2) he's got four years of control after this season meaning the return could be really good and 3) he's going to be 32 yrs before STing opens in 2027 meaning he doesn't fit the L-T plan.

Of course he fits the long term plan rock. He is cheap and has 5 years of contract control. That's the very definition of the long term plan.

Age?

As of early May 2026, several veteran relievers aged 33 or older are leading or competing for closing roles, relying on experience, high-velocity, and proven track records.

[Aroldis Chapman (38 years old, Red Sox): Turned back the clock to become "fantasy gold" in 2025, elite in 2026, and is considered one of the best closers in the league due to improved command and continued high velocity.

[Raisel Iglesias (36 years old, Braves): Despite being in his mid-30s, he remains a top-tier closer, starting the 2026 season with multiple saves and a 0.00 ERA through his first few appearances.

[Kenley Jansen (38 years old, Tigers): Approaching 500 career saves, the veteran continues to be a reliable, high-leverage option in 2026.

[Carlos Estévez (33 years old, Royals): A key 2025 saves leader who entered his age-33 season with strong expectations to continue closing for Kansas City.

[Kyle Finnegan (34 years old, Tigers/Nationals): Recorded 38 saves in 2025 and continued to be a proven closer option in 2026.

[Trevor Megill (32-33 years old, Brewers): While he was 32 at the end of 2025, his role as a primary 2025 closer and 2026 contender places him among this veteran group.

At some point, trading veterans for prospects is just kicking the can down the road. Sure a player could get hurt, but, you keep players for their utility and hope they stay healthy. You don't trade them because they could get hurt.

I hear the argument for getting blown away in a trade. Teams don't usually trade their future for a current need. They trade from their excess and that doesn't lend so much to being "blown away". Don't trade a really effective current player with 5 years of control for prospects...or loaners.

It isn't like we won't be competitive for a couple years. We have players who are ready to compete now. Finally Walker, Gorman and Herrera have traction. Church is turning heads. Winn, Weatherholt are great defensively and getting it done offensively. Burleson too. Catching is there and beating down the door. The last thing we want to do is undermine the one weakness...pitching. Sure, trade the veterans closing on FA...Nootbarr, Romero etc. Not our stud closer. What do ya hate about 19 K's and one BB?

Ryan Helsey (O's), Josh Hader (Astros), Raisel Iglesias (Braves), Pete Fairbanks (Marlins), Edwin Diaz (Dodgers), Kenley Jansen (Tigers), Kirby Yates (Angels) and Carlos Esteves (Royals) just a few big name RP"s on the IL.

You mentioned Megill/33 yrs old on 12/5 who's a good example of what can happen:

2025
2.49 ERA
30 Saves

2026
6.00 ERA

And certainly NOT trading O'Brien because he might get hurt (that was just one of the possible negatives that could affect his trade value) but rather because he's having a good season and will bring back a valuable prospect.

You say teams, "Teams don't usually trade their future for a current need. They trade from their excess and that doesn't lend so much to being "blown away".

Yet the A's acquired De Vries, the #3 overall prospect in baseball, from the San Diego Padres in a package for All-Star closer Mason Miller.

Now O'Brien certainly isn't in Miller's class but this shows the return for a good closer can indeed be great.

For example:

-The Pittsburgh Pirates traded Tony Watson to the Dodgers in 2017 for O'Neil Cruz

-The New York Yankees received Glaybar Torres, then a top-30 prospect, from the Chicago Cubs in July 2016 for Aroldis Chapman.

-The Boston Red Sox landed both Jason Varitek and Derick Lowe from the Seattle Mariners in exchange for closer Heathcliff Slocumb.

-Seattle acquired Jarred Kelenic, a top-tier outfield prospect, along with Justin Dunn from the Mets in 2018 for closer Edwin Díaz and Robinson Canó.

-The best deal I could find was the Houston Astros received prospect Jeff Bagwell from the Red Sox in 1990 for reliever Larry Andersen.

I'm just telling you O'Brien could be the Cardinals best trade chip (unless D. May puts up another two months of strong starts like his last four) and the L-T plan is to use older players like O'Brien to acquire younger (potential) talent.

I'm not screaming from the mountain tops to "trade them all".

This isn't my "game plan", it's the Cardinals.

I'm just reading the tea leaves and I can see this is the route BDWJr wants C. Bloom to take, build as much young talent as possible via trades and the draft.

[JuanAgosto]

Abdicating responsibility to win this season for HOPES of better chances in the future is stupid. This year might be that lightening in the bottle and every “perfect” year in the future could be disappointments. Is he here to win or write the script of some narrative in his head? No one saying trade away every viable prospect for a vet but making one move that could help push this team in to the playoffs shouldn’t be so easily dismissed the first of MAY. There are no guarantees with any of this. If 2026 is the Cards season then play to WIN

You've nailed it with this unique concept that a team should try to "WIN." .

I'm sure Bloom would love to have your insight.

PS - would you rather win more games this year and reduce the chance to win the World Series in future years? Not I. It's all about the ring. Bloom's plan is designed for that. Just a guess, but I think you're heavily in debt.

Here is the unspoken problem with the thought process sacrifice now to win in 3-4 years. When that window you are all waiting on opens, Winn, Burleson, Walker, Gorman, Liberatore, and Herrera will be entering free agency territory. Do you think BDW is signing them to big deals? Nope. He brought Bloom in to run the Rays model. Once a guy nears free agency, trade him. Any potential window with this group is 1 to 2 years. And then you better hope Bloom nails those trades.

[mattmitchl44]

Abdicating responsibility to win this season for HOPES of better chances in the future is stupid. This year might be that lightening in the bottle and every “perfect” year in the future could be disappointments. Is he here to win or write the script of some narrative in his head? No one saying trade away every viable prospect for a vet but making one move that could help push this team in to the playoffs shouldn’t be so easily dismissed the first of MAY. There are no guarantees with any of this. If 2026 is the Cards season then play to WIN

You've nailed it with this unique concept that a team should try to "WIN." .

I'm sure Bloom would love to have your insight.

PS - would you rather win more games this year and reduce the chance to win the World Series in future years? Not I. It's all about the ring. Bloom's plan is designed for that. Just a guess, but I think you're heavily in debt.

Here is the unspoken problem with the thought process sacrifice now to win in 3-4 years. When that window you are all waiting on opens, Winn, Burleson, Walker, Gorman, Liberatore, and Herrera will be entering free agency territory. Do you think BDW is signing them to big deals? Nope. He brought Bloom in to run the Rays model. Once a guy nears free agency, trade him. Any potential window with this group is 1 to 2 years. And then you better hope Bloom nails those trades.

The Cardinals can be, and will need to be, more aggressive at locking up their young players to relatively low cost long term deals. They should be talking to at least Weatherholt, Winn, Herrera, and Burleson already, and Walker soon if not already.

[ClassicO]

Abdicating responsibility to win this season for HOPES of better chances in the future is stupid. This year might be that lightening in the bottle and every “perfect” year in the future could be disappointments. Is he here to win or write the script of some narrative in his head? No one saying trade away every viable prospect for a vet but making one move that could help push this team in to the playoffs shouldn’t be so easily dismissed the first of MAY. There are no guarantees with any of this. If 2026 is the Cards season then play to WIN

You've nailed it with this unique concept that a team should try to "WIN." .

I'm sure Bloom would love to have your insight.

PS - would you rather win more games this year and reduce the chance to win the World Series in future years? Not I. It's all about the ring. Bloom's plan is designed for that. Just a guess, but I think you're heavily in debt.

Here is the unspoken problem with the thought process sacrifice now to win in 3-4 years. When that window you are all waiting on opens, Winn, Burleson, Walker, Gorman, Liberatore, and Herrera will be entering free agency territory. Do you think BDW is signing them to big deals? Nope. He brought Bloom in to run the Rays model. Once a guy nears free agency, trade him. Any potential window with this group is 1 to 2 years. And then you better hope Bloom nails those trades.

The Cardinals can be, and will need to be, more aggressive at locking up their young players to relatively low cost long term deals. They should be talking to at least Weatherholt, Winn, Herrera, and Burleson already, and Walker soon if not already.

^^^^^
This.

And there are no quick fixes.
Goldfan and others who want immediate gratification refuse to offer a solution. What moves can Bloom make this year to win a WS? Or are you weenies whose major hope in life is to have the Birds get a wild card spot and go out quickly?
They are afraid to propose a trade or a potential FA acquisition because they know they'll be mocked when they try (and fail miserably).

[Ozziesfan41]

Abdicating responsibility to win this season for HOPES of better chances in the future is stupid. This year might be that lightening in the bottle and every “perfect” year in the future could be disappointments. Is he here to win or write the script of some narrative in his head? No one saying trade away every viable prospect for a vet but making one move that could help push this team in to the playoffs shouldn’t be so easily dismissed the first of MAY. There are no guarantees with any of this. If 2026 is the Cards season then play to WIN

You've nailed it with this unique concept that a team should try to "WIN." .

I'm sure Bloom would love to have your insight.

PS - would you rather win more games this year and reduce the chance to win the World Series in future years? Not I. It's all about the ring. Bloom's plan is designed for that. Just a guess, but I think you're heavily in debt.

Here is the unspoken problem with the thought process sacrifice now to win in 3-4 years. When that window you are all waiting on opens, Winn, Burleson, Walker, Gorman, Liberatore, and Herrera will be entering free agency territory. Do you think BDW is signing them to big deals? Nope. He brought Bloom in to run the Rays model. Once a guy nears free agency, trade him. Any potential window with this group is 1 to 2 years. And then you better hope Bloom nails those trades.

Yes they are wanting to adopt the rays model of being successful at drafting and developing good talent youre wrong about them going to a small market team. They are really just going back to what made the cardinals successful in the past being able to develop good young cost controlled players and eventually supplementing them with veterans. The cardinals recent problems have been they have been unable to develop good cost controlled players so instead of being able to spend on one good player they have had to disperse the money around to multiple mediocre and supplemental players who they then have to elevate to key roles instead of being the supplemental players they are. Gray wasnt an ace but because they could not develop any internal aces they had to elevate him to ace instead of a 2 or 3 starter which he is. Contreras great supplemental player but because the caridnals couldnt develop a decent middle of the order bat they had to elevate him into middle of the order bat instead of 5th or 6th

[Red Bird Classic]

No big additions this season

I would, however expect Bloom is already searching the back alleys of MLB for some help in the pen'

Im fine with them not being buyers at the deadline. But I hope they dont sabotage a post season possibility by being sellers. This group would benefit from playoff experience even if it is short-lived. A sell-off would only create more animosity from the fans.

As always. it depends on the deal.

If some team offers massive value for a guy that isn't part of our long-term future, you might make that deal even if if lessons the chance at a WC. The team can fight ahead anyway. You learn more from losing than winning.

The goal is to win the WS. Not surprise everyone by making a WC game.

So trading for one or two prospects guarantees winning a World Series? Last time I checked making the WC gives you a better shot than 4th place does.

If the Cardinals built a great team, they might have a 10% chance of wining a ring for each of 4 or 5 seasons. In the long term, that's a much better bet than squeaking into a wild card game as the 10th or 12th best team in the majors and hoping for miracle.

The team has finally made the right move towards rebuilding. The worst thing they could do is let early and lucky results distract them from completing the rebuild before they've got the team ready to truly compete, not for 3rd place and a Wild Card game but for the World Series.

And, note, the more rounds of playoff that that WC team has to navigate through and the more prevalent that "superteams" like the Dodgers, etc. become (i.e., the greater the polarization between the very few "have" teams and the many "have not" teams) the more true that becomes.

Those if favor of the Cardinals continuing their prior "just get into the playoff and anything can happen approach" are, I think, not dealing with the reality of how the baseball landscape has changed.

That approach , get in and anything can happen generally reign true, as many favorites lose once in. And many under dogs win. Rarely is the championship series in any sport a match between the two best records.

You could win the a 10-million dollar lottery too. People do, that's how they sell tickets. But the odds of any particular individual winning are vanishingly small.

Same with baseball. A few lucky teams win. Some favorites lose. But the playoffs are not a crapshoot. The odds significantly favor the better teams. And that was before they added extra wild card teams, who, as Matt pointed out, have to play opening rounds while top teams save their best pitchers.

There's probably not even a 1% chance that the current Cardinal team will win the WS, and that's assuming their regular season luck holds and they add a piece of two.

If making money is your goal, playing to maximize playoff appearances might be a smart play. But if your goal is too win WS rings, playing for Wild Cards and hoping for luck isn't a good bet.

[hugeCardfan]

Bloom isn't going to stray from the L-T plan.

He'll deal D. May and likely Noot, JoJo and O'Brien.

That said, this should NOT PREVENT him from adding a bullpen piece or two via trades that don't involve players he see's having a role in the L-T plan.

I'm NOT Talking a high priced closer or $12M A. Miller type or (gulp) B. Cecil, rather a P. Maton or JoJo type who came at a low cost.

Sorry rock. I think you are dead wrong about O'Brien. Makes no sense to release the best reliever on the team with 5 years of control.

No sweat HC

The reason you deal O'Brien is 1) with all the injuries around MLB to closers he'll be a super hot commodity, 2) he's got four years of control after this season meaning the return could be really good and 3) he's going to be 32 yrs before STing opens in 2027 meaning he doesn't fit the L-T plan.

Of course he fits the long term plan rock. He is cheap and has 5 years of contract control. That's the very definition of the long term plan.

Age?

As of early May 2026, several veteran relievers aged 33 or older are leading or competing for closing roles, relying on experience, high-velocity, and proven track records.

[Aroldis Chapman (38 years old, Red Sox): Turned back the clock to become "fantasy gold" in 2025, elite in 2026, and is considered one of the best closers in the league due to improved command and continued high velocity.

[Raisel Iglesias (36 years old, Braves): Despite being in his mid-30s, he remains a top-tier closer, starting the 2026 season with multiple saves and a 0.00 ERA through his first few appearances.

[Kenley Jansen (38 years old, Tigers): Approaching 500 career saves, the veteran continues to be a reliable, high-leverage option in 2026.

[Carlos Estévez (33 years old, Royals): A key 2025 saves leader who entered his age-33 season with strong expectations to continue closing for Kansas City.

[Kyle Finnegan (34 years old, Tigers/Nationals): Recorded 38 saves in 2025 and continued to be a proven closer option in 2026.

[Trevor Megill (32-33 years old, Brewers): While he was 32 at the end of 2025, his role as a primary 2025 closer and 2026 contender places him among this veteran group.

At some point, trading veterans for prospects is just kicking the can down the road. Sure a player could get hurt, but, you keep players for their utility and hope they stay healthy. You don't trade them because they could get hurt.

I hear the argument for getting blown away in a trade. Teams don't usually trade their future for a current need. They trade from their excess and that doesn't lend so much to being "blown away". Don't trade a really effective current player with 5 years of control for prospects...or loaners.

It isn't like we won't be competitive for a couple years. We have players who are ready to compete now. Finally Walker, Gorman and Herrera have traction. Church is turning heads. Winn, Weatherholt are great defensively and getting it done offensively. Burleson too. Catching is there and beating down the door. The last thing we want to do is undermine the one weakness...pitching. Sure, trade the veterans closing on FA...Nootbarr, Romero etc. Not our stud closer. What do ya hate about 19 K's and one BB?

Not to nitpick, but I wouldn’t lump Gorman in with Walker/Herrera as “gaining traction”. Gorman’s OPS+ is 90, the same as it was last year and basically the same as 2024. He’s still stinking offensively.

OK. But, he has cut back on his strike outs, quadrupled his full year WAR from '24, doubled his full year WAR from '25 and well ahead of rbi pace any of his years. His defense is also holding up well. I think there is some traction there.

His RBI pace has a lot to do with hitting behind the top 4 hitters in the lineup. His ISO is the worst of his career (and has been on a decline for seemingly every year). He’s a bottom half third baseman offensively and his defense has been a pleasant surprise. Total opposite of what I expected from him when he came up in the system. It’s hard for me to get excited about him though when hasn’t had an OPS above .700 since 2023. That 2023 season is now starting to look like a total outlier as his other 4 years in the MLB has been .721 or worse OPS wise.

I would imagine that ISO would tend to diminish when a hitter is concentrating on striking out less thus avoiding home run swings in favor of contact. I also would argue that rbi's improve when you hit the ball rather than strike out. Not saying that he's arrived. Clearly not the case. But, my eyes suggest that he's finding a little traction thanks to better coaching. That will either be true or he will give way to someone else at some point. I hope that he shows some of that promise we have all hoped for. Of course, he will, or, he won't.

[hugeCardfan]

Bloom isn't going to stray from the L-T plan.

He'll deal D. May and likely Noot, JoJo and O'Brien.

That said, this should NOT PREVENT him from adding a bullpen piece or two via trades that don't involve players he see's having a role in the L-T plan.

I'm NOT Talking a high priced closer or $12M A. Miller type or (gulp) B. Cecil, rather a P. Maton or JoJo type who came at a low cost.

Sorry rock. I think you are dead wrong about O'Brien. Makes no sense to release the best reliever on the team with 5 years of control.

No sweat HC

The reason you deal O'Brien is 1) with all the injuries around MLB to closers he'll be a super hot commodity, 2) he's got four years of control after this season meaning the return could be really good and 3) he's going to be 32 yrs before STing opens in 2027 meaning he doesn't fit the L-T plan.

Of course he fits the long term plan rock. He is cheap and has 5 years of contract control. That's the very definition of the long term plan.

Age?

As of early May 2026, several veteran relievers aged 33 or older are leading or competing for closing roles, relying on experience, high-velocity, and proven track records.

[Aroldis Chapman (38 years old, Red Sox): Turned back the clock to become "fantasy gold" in 2025, elite in 2026, and is considered one of the best closers in the league due to improved command and continued high velocity.

[Raisel Iglesias (36 years old, Braves): Despite being in his mid-30s, he remains a top-tier closer, starting the 2026 season with multiple saves and a 0.00 ERA through his first few appearances.

[Kenley Jansen (38 years old, Tigers): Approaching 500 career saves, the veteran continues to be a reliable, high-leverage option in 2026.

[Carlos Estévez (33 years old, Royals): A key 2025 saves leader who entered his age-33 season with strong expectations to continue closing for Kansas City.

[Kyle Finnegan (34 years old, Tigers/Nationals): Recorded 38 saves in 2025 and continued to be a proven closer option in 2026.

[Trevor Megill (32-33 years old, Brewers): While he was 32 at the end of 2025, his role as a primary 2025 closer and 2026 contender places him among this veteran group.

At some point, trading veterans for prospects is just kicking the can down the road. Sure a player could get hurt, but, you keep players for their utility and hope they stay healthy. You don't trade them because they could get hurt.

I hear the argument for getting blown away in a trade. Teams don't usually trade their future for a current need. They trade from their excess and that doesn't lend so much to being "blown away". Don't trade a really effective current player with 5 years of control for prospects...or loaners.

It isn't like we won't be competitive for a couple years. We have players who are ready to compete now. Finally Walker, Gorman and Herrera have traction. Church is turning heads. Winn, Weatherholt are great defensively and getting it done offensively. Burleson too. Catching is there and beating down the door. The last thing we want to do is undermine the one weakness...pitching. Sure, trade the veterans closing on FA...Nootbarr, Romero etc. Not our stud closer. What do ya hate about 19 K's and one BB?

Ryan Helsey (O's), Josh Hader (Astros), Raisel Iglesias (Braves), Pete Fairbanks (Marlins), Edwin Diaz (Dodgers), Kenley Jansen (Tigers), Kirby Yates (Angels) and Carlos Esteves (Royals) just a few big name RP"s on the IL.

You mentioned Megill/33 yrs old on 12/5 who's a good example of what can happen:

2025
2.49 ERA
30 Saves

2026
6.00 ERA

And certainly NOT trading O'Brien because he might get hurt (that was just one of the possible negatives that could affect his trade value) but rather because he's having a good season and will bring back a valuable prospect.

You say teams, "Teams don't usually trade their future for a current need. They trade from their excess and that doesn't lend so much to being "blown away".

Yet the A's acquired De Vries, the #3 overall prospect in baseball, from the San Diego Padres in a package for All-Star closer Mason Miller.

Now O'Brien certainly isn't in Miller's class but this shows the return for a good closer can indeed be great.

For example:

-The Pittsburgh Pirates traded Tony Watson to the Dodgers in 2017 for O'Neil Cruz

-The New York Yankees received Glaybar Torres, then a top-30 prospect, from the Chicago Cubs in July 2016 for Aroldis Chapman.

-The Boston Red Sox landed both Jason Varitek and Derick Lowe from the Seattle Mariners in exchange for closer Heathcliff Slocumb.

-Seattle acquired Jarred Kelenic, a top-tier outfield prospect, along with Justin Dunn from the Mets in 2018 for closer Edwin Díaz and Robinson Canó.

-The best deal I could find was the Houston Astros received prospect Jeff Bagwell from the Red Sox in 1990 for reliever Larry Andersen.

I'm just telling you O'Brien could be the Cardinals best trade chip (unless D. May puts up another two months of strong starts like his last four) and the L-T plan is to use older players like O'Brien to acquire younger (potential) talent.

I'm not screaming from the mountain tops to "trade them all".

This isn't my "game plan", it's the Cardinals.

I'm just reading the tea leaves and I can see this is the route BDWJr wants C. Bloom to take, build as much young talent as possible via trades and the draft.

And yet.... We have no example of trading a player who is excelling at his position, playing for the minimum, and has 5 years of contract control. I think it's your idea rock much more so than that of the Cardinals. Agree to disagree.

[Goldfan]

Abdicating responsibility to win this season for HOPES of better chances in the future is stupid. This year might be that lightening in the bottle and every “perfect” year in the future could be disappointments. Is he here to win or write the script of some narrative in his head? No one saying trade away every viable prospect for a vet but making one move that could help push this team in to the playoffs shouldn’t be so easily dismissed the first of MAY. There are no guarantees with any of this. If 2026 is the Cards season then play to WIN

You've nailed it with this unique concept that a team should try to "WIN." .

I'm sure Bloom would love to have your insight.

PS - would you rather win more games this year and reduce the chance to win the World Series in future years? Not I. It's all about the ring. Bloom's plan is designed for that. Just a guess, but I think you're heavily in debt.

I love the FEAR that oozes from your types……
“If we supplement this years team with one or 2 players that must mean we destroy our entire minor league system”
“If we bring up talent performing at AAA……we will ruin them and they will never play in MLB”
“I am so smart that I KNOW this years team can’t win AND the team with players who havent even been drafted 2,3,4yr from now WILL WIN
And for the record……ZERO DEBT

[ClassicO]

Abdicating responsibility to win this season for HOPES of better chances in the future is stupid. This year might be that lightening in the bottle and every “perfect” year in the future could be disappointments. Is he here to win or write the script of some narrative in his head? No one saying trade away every viable prospect for a vet but making one move that could help push this team in to the playoffs shouldn’t be so easily dismissed the first of MAY. There are no guarantees with any of this. If 2026 is the Cards season then play to WIN

You've nailed it with this unique concept that a team should try to "WIN." .

I'm sure Bloom would love to have your insight.

PS - would you rather win more games this year and reduce the chance to win the World Series in future years? Not I. It's all about the ring. Bloom's plan is designed for that. Just a guess, but I think you're heavily in debt.

I love the FEAR that oozes from your types……
“If we supplement this years team with one or 2 players that must mean we destroy our entire minor league system”
“If we bring up talent performing at AAA……we will ruin them and they will never play in MLB”
“I am so smart that I KNOW this years team can’t win AND the team with players who havent even been drafted 2,3,4yr from now WILL WIN
And for the record……ZERO DEBT

I don't fear ignorance.
Again. Not one proposed solution as to who they should acquire.
Just whining.
We all know they will eventually bring up guys like Crooks and Baez, but acting like that wins the WS this year is poppycock.

[rockondlouie]

Bloom isn't going to stray from the L-T plan.

He'll deal D. May and likely Noot, JoJo and O'Brien.

That said, this should NOT PREVENT him from adding a bullpen piece or two via trades that don't involve players he see's having a role in the L-T plan.

I'm NOT Talking a high priced closer or $12M A. Miller type or (gulp) B. Cecil, rather a P. Maton or JoJo type who came at a low cost.

Sorry rock. I think you are dead wrong about O'Brien. Makes no sense to release the best reliever on the team with 5 years of control.

No sweat HC

The reason you deal O'Brien is 1) with all the injuries around MLB to closers he'll be a super hot commodity, 2) he's got four years of control after this season meaning the return could be really good and 3) he's going to be 32 yrs before STing opens in 2027 meaning he doesn't fit the L-T plan.

Of course he fits the long term plan rock. He is cheap and has 5 years of contract control. That's the very definition of the long term plan.

Age?

As of early May 2026, several veteran relievers aged 33 or older are leading or competing for closing roles, relying on experience, high-velocity, and proven track records.

[Aroldis Chapman (38 years old, Red Sox): Turned back the clock to become "fantasy gold" in 2025, elite in 2026, and is considered one of the best closers in the league due to improved command and continued high velocity.

[Raisel Iglesias (36 years old, Braves): Despite being in his mid-30s, he remains a top-tier closer, starting the 2026 season with multiple saves and a 0.00 ERA through his first few appearances.

[Kenley Jansen (38 years old, Tigers): Approaching 500 career saves, the veteran continues to be a reliable, high-leverage option in 2026.

[Carlos Estévez (33 years old, Royals): A key 2025 saves leader who entered his age-33 season with strong expectations to continue closing for Kansas City.

[Kyle Finnegan (34 years old, Tigers/Nationals): Recorded 38 saves in 2025 and continued to be a proven closer option in 2026.

[Trevor Megill (32-33 years old, Brewers): While he was 32 at the end of 2025, his role as a primary 2025 closer and 2026 contender places him among this veteran group.

At some point, trading veterans for prospects is just kicking the can down the road. Sure a player could get hurt, but, you keep players for their utility and hope they stay healthy. You don't trade them because they could get hurt.

I hear the argument for getting blown away in a trade. Teams don't usually trade their future for a current need. They trade from their excess and that doesn't lend so much to being "blown away". Don't trade a really effective current player with 5 years of control for prospects...or loaners.

It isn't like we won't be competitive for a couple years. We have players who are ready to compete now. Finally Walker, Gorman and Herrera have traction. Church is turning heads. Winn, Weatherholt are great defensively and getting it done offensively. Burleson too. Catching is there and beating down the door. The last thing we want to do is undermine the one weakness...pitching. Sure, trade the veterans closing on FA...Nootbarr, Romero etc. Not our stud closer. What do ya hate about 19 K's and one BB?

Ryan Helsey (O's), Josh Hader (Astros), Raisel Iglesias (Braves), Pete Fairbanks (Marlins), Edwin Diaz (Dodgers), Kenley Jansen (Tigers), Kirby Yates (Angels) and Carlos Esteves (Royals) just a few big name RP"s on the IL.

You mentioned Megill/33 yrs old on 12/5 who's a good example of what can happen:

2025
2.49 ERA
30 Saves

2026
6.00 ERA

And certainly NOT trading O'Brien because he might get hurt (that was just one of the possible negatives that could affect his trade value) but rather because he's having a good season and will bring back a valuable prospect.

You say teams, "Teams don't usually trade their future for a current need. They trade from their excess and that doesn't lend so much to being "blown away".

Yet the A's acquired De Vries, the #3 overall prospect in baseball, from the San Diego Padres in a package for All-Star closer Mason Miller.

Now O'Brien certainly isn't in Miller's class but this shows the return for a good closer can indeed be great.

For example:

-The Pittsburgh Pirates traded Tony Watson to the Dodgers in 2017 for O'Neil Cruz

-The New York Yankees received Glaybar Torres, then a top-30 prospect, from the Chicago Cubs in July 2016 for Aroldis Chapman.

-The Boston Red Sox landed both Jason Varitek and Derick Lowe from the Seattle Mariners in exchange for closer Heathcliff Slocumb.

-Seattle acquired Jarred Kelenic, a top-tier outfield prospect, along with Justin Dunn from the Mets in 2018 for closer Edwin Díaz and Robinson Canó.

-The best deal I could find was the Houston Astros received prospect Jeff Bagwell from the Red Sox in 1990 for reliever Larry Andersen.

I'm just telling you O'Brien could be the Cardinals best trade chip (unless D. May puts up another two months of strong starts like his last four) and the L-T plan is to use older players like O'Brien to acquire younger (potential) talent.

I'm not screaming from the mountain tops to "trade them all".

This isn't my "game plan", it's the Cardinals.

I'm just reading the tea leaves and I can see this is the route BDWJr wants C. Bloom to take, build as much young talent as possible via trades and the draft.

And yet.... We have no example of trading a player who is excelling at his position, playing for the minimum, and has 5 years of contract control. I think it's your idea rock much more so than that of the Cardinals. Agree to disagree.

100% NOT my idea, it's the Cardinals (re: Gray-NADO-WillyC).

See ya' at the trade deadline and if he's not traded I certainly won't be upset.

[hugeCardfan]

Bloom isn't going to stray from the L-T plan.

He'll deal D. May and likely Noot, JoJo and O'Brien.

That said, this should NOT PREVENT him from adding a bullpen piece or two via trades that don't involve players he see's having a role in the L-T plan.

I'm NOT Talking a high priced closer or $12M A. Miller type or (gulp) B. Cecil, rather a P. Maton or JoJo type who came at a low cost.

Sorry rock. I think you are dead wrong about O'Brien. Makes no sense to release the best reliever on the team with 5 years of control.

No sweat HC

The reason you deal O'Brien is 1) with all the injuries around MLB to closers he'll be a super hot commodity, 2) he's got four years of control after this season meaning the return could be really good and 3) he's going to be 32 yrs before STing opens in 2027 meaning he doesn't fit the L-T plan.

Of course he fits the long term plan rock. He is cheap and has 5 years of contract control. That's the very definition of the long term plan.

Age?

As of early May 2026, several veteran relievers aged 33 or older are leading or competing for closing roles, relying on experience, high-velocity, and proven track records.

[Aroldis Chapman (38 years old, Red Sox): Turned back the clock to become "fantasy gold" in 2025, elite in 2026, and is considered one of the best closers in the league due to improved command and continued high velocity.

[Raisel Iglesias (36 years old, Braves): Despite being in his mid-30s, he remains a top-tier closer, starting the 2026 season with multiple saves and a 0.00 ERA through his first few appearances.

[Kenley Jansen (38 years old, Tigers): Approaching 500 career saves, the veteran continues to be a reliable, high-leverage option in 2026.

[Carlos Estévez (33 years old, Royals): A key 2025 saves leader who entered his age-33 season with strong expectations to continue closing for Kansas City.

[Kyle Finnegan (34 years old, Tigers/Nationals): Recorded 38 saves in 2025 and continued to be a proven closer option in 2026.

[Trevor Megill (32-33 years old, Brewers): While he was 32 at the end of 2025, his role as a primary 2025 closer and 2026 contender places him among this veteran group.

At some point, trading veterans for prospects is just kicking the can down the road. Sure a player could get hurt, but, you keep players for their utility and hope they stay healthy. You don't trade them because they could get hurt.

I hear the argument for getting blown away in a trade. Teams don't usually trade their future for a current need. They trade from their excess and that doesn't lend so much to being "blown away". Don't trade a really effective current player with 5 years of control for prospects...or loaners.

It isn't like we won't be competitive for a couple years. We have players who are ready to compete now. Finally Walker, Gorman and Herrera have traction. Church is turning heads. Winn, Weatherholt are great defensively and getting it done offensively. Burleson too. Catching is there and beating down the door. The last thing we want to do is undermine the one weakness...pitching. Sure, trade the veterans closing on FA...Nootbarr, Romero etc. Not our stud closer. What do ya hate about 19 K's and one BB?

Ryan Helsey (O's), Josh Hader (Astros), Raisel Iglesias (Braves), Pete Fairbanks (Marlins), Edwin Diaz (Dodgers), Kenley Jansen (Tigers), Kirby Yates (Angels) and Carlos Esteves (Royals) just a few big name RP"s on the IL.

You mentioned Megill/33 yrs old on 12/5 who's a good example of what can happen:

2025
2.49 ERA
30 Saves

2026
6.00 ERA

And certainly NOT trading O'Brien because he might get hurt (that was just one of the possible negatives that could affect his trade value) but rather because he's having a good season and will bring back a valuable prospect.

You say teams, "Teams don't usually trade their future for a current need. They trade from their excess and that doesn't lend so much to being "blown away".

Yet the A's acquired De Vries, the #3 overall prospect in baseball, from the San Diego Padres in a package for All-Star closer Mason Miller.

Now O'Brien certainly isn't in Miller's class but this shows the return for a good closer can indeed be great.

For example:

-The Pittsburgh Pirates traded Tony Watson to the Dodgers in 2017 for O'Neil Cruz

-The New York Yankees received Glaybar Torres, then a top-30 prospect, from the Chicago Cubs in July 2016 for Aroldis Chapman.

-The Boston Red Sox landed both Jason Varitek and Derick Lowe from the Seattle Mariners in exchange for closer Heathcliff Slocumb.

-Seattle acquired Jarred Kelenic, a top-tier outfield prospect, along with Justin Dunn from the Mets in 2018 for closer Edwin Díaz and Robinson Canó.

-The best deal I could find was the Houston Astros received prospect Jeff Bagwell from the Red Sox in 1990 for reliever Larry Andersen.

I'm just telling you O'Brien could be the Cardinals best trade chip (unless D. May puts up another two months of strong starts like his last four) and the L-T plan is to use older players like O'Brien to acquire younger (potential) talent.

I'm not screaming from the mountain tops to "trade them all".

This isn't my "game plan", it's the Cardinals.

I'm just reading the tea leaves and I can see this is the route BDWJr wants C. Bloom to take, build as much young talent as possible via trades and the draft.

And yet.... We have no example of trading a player who is excelling at his position, playing for the minimum, and has 5 years of contract control. I think it's your idea rock much more so than that of the Cardinals. Agree to disagree.

100% NOT my idea, it's the Cardinals (re: Gray-NADO-WillyC).

See ya' at the trade deadline and if he's not traded I certainly won't be upset.

The Cardinals have consistently traded expensive players with a year or two left on the contract. That made sense and we've gotten some interesting prospects in the deals. I don't think O'Brien fits as a comparison or in any trading plans. Of course, if somehow we would be blown away by an offer anything is possible. Just wouldn't hold my breath.

[ecleme22]

Bloom isn't going to stray from the L-T plan.

He'll deal D. May and likely Noot, JoJo and O'Brien.

That said, this should NOT PREVENT him from adding a bullpen piece or two via trades that don't involve players he see's having a role in the L-T plan.

I'm NOT Talking a high priced closer or $12M A. Miller type or (gulp) B. Cecil, rather a P. Maton or JoJo type who came at a low cost.

Sorry rock. I think you are dead wrong about O'Brien. Makes no sense to release the best reliever on the team with 5 years of control.

No sweat HC

The reason you deal O'Brien is 1) with all the injuries around MLB to closers he'll be a super hot commodity, 2) he's got four years of control after this season meaning the return could be really good and 3) he's going to be 32 yrs before STing opens in 2027 meaning he doesn't fit the L-T plan.

Of course he fits the long term plan rock. He is cheap and has 5 years of contract control. That's the very definition of the long term plan.

Age?

As of early May 2026, several veteran relievers aged 33 or older are leading or competing for closing roles, relying on experience, high-velocity, and proven track records.

[Aroldis Chapman (38 years old, Red Sox): Turned back the clock to become "fantasy gold" in 2025, elite in 2026, and is considered one of the best closers in the league due to improved command and continued high velocity.

[Raisel Iglesias (36 years old, Braves): Despite being in his mid-30s, he remains a top-tier closer, starting the 2026 season with multiple saves and a 0.00 ERA through his first few appearances.

[Kenley Jansen (38 years old, Tigers): Approaching 500 career saves, the veteran continues to be a reliable, high-leverage option in 2026.

[Carlos Estévez (33 years old, Royals): A key 2025 saves leader who entered his age-33 season with strong expectations to continue closing for Kansas City.

[Kyle Finnegan (34 years old, Tigers/Nationals): Recorded 38 saves in 2025 and continued to be a proven closer option in 2026.

[Trevor Megill (32-33 years old, Brewers): While he was 32 at the end of 2025, his role as a primary 2025 closer and 2026 contender places him among this veteran group.

At some point, trading veterans for prospects is just kicking the can down the road. Sure a player could get hurt, but, you keep players for their utility and hope they stay healthy. You don't trade them because they could get hurt.

I hear the argument for getting blown away in a trade. Teams don't usually trade their future for a current need. They trade from their excess and that doesn't lend so much to being "blown away". Don't trade a really effective current player with 5 years of control for prospects...or loaners.

It isn't like we won't be competitive for a couple years. We have players who are ready to compete now. Finally Walker, Gorman and Herrera have traction. Church is turning heads. Winn, Weatherholt are great defensively and getting it done offensively. Burleson too. Catching is there and beating down the door. The last thing we want to do is undermine the one weakness...pitching. Sure, trade the veterans closing on FA...Nootbarr, Romero etc. Not our stud closer. What do ya hate about 19 K's and one BB?

Ryan Helsey (O's), Josh Hader (Astros), Raisel Iglesias (Braves), Pete Fairbanks (Marlins), Edwin Diaz (Dodgers), Kenley Jansen (Tigers), Kirby Yates (Angels) and Carlos Esteves (Royals) just a few big name RP"s on the IL.

You mentioned Megill/33 yrs old on 12/5 who's a good example of what can happen:

2025
2.49 ERA
30 Saves

2026
6.00 ERA

And certainly NOT trading O'Brien because he might get hurt (that was just one of the possible negatives that could affect his trade value) but rather because he's having a good season and will bring back a valuable prospect.

You say teams, "Teams don't usually trade their future for a current need. They trade from their excess and that doesn't lend so much to being "blown away".

Yet the A's acquired De Vries, the #3 overall prospect in baseball, from the San Diego Padres in a package for All-Star closer Mason Miller.

Now O'Brien certainly isn't in Miller's class but this shows the return for a good closer can indeed be great.

For example:

-The Pittsburgh Pirates traded Tony Watson to the Dodgers in 2017 for O'Neil Cruz

-The New York Yankees received Glaybar Torres, then a top-30 prospect, from the Chicago Cubs in July 2016 for Aroldis Chapman.

-The Boston Red Sox landed both Jason Varitek and Derick Lowe from the Seattle Mariners in exchange for closer Heathcliff Slocumb.

-Seattle acquired Jarred Kelenic, a top-tier outfield prospect, along with Justin Dunn from the Mets in 2018 for closer Edwin Díaz and Robinson Canó.

-The best deal I could find was the Houston Astros received prospect Jeff Bagwell from the Red Sox in 1990 for reliever Larry Andersen.

I'm just telling you O'Brien could be the Cardinals best trade chip (unless D. May puts up another two months of strong starts like his last four) and the L-T plan is to use older players like O'Brien to acquire younger (potential) talent.

I'm not screaming from the mountain tops to "trade them all".

This isn't my "game plan", it's the Cardinals.

I'm just reading the tea leaves and I can see this is the route BDWJr wants C. Bloom to take, build as much young talent as possible via trades and the draft.

And yet.... We have no example of trading a player who is excelling at his position, playing for the minimum, and has 5 years of contract control. I think it's your idea rock much more so than that of the Cardinals. Agree to disagree.

100% NOT my idea, it's the Cardinals (re: Gray-NADO-WillyC).

See ya' at the trade deadline and if he's not traded I certainly won't be upset.

The Cardinals have consistently traded expensive players with a year or two left on the contract. That made sense and we've gotten some interesting prospects in the deals. I don't think O'Brien fits as a comparison or in any trading plans. Of course, if somehow we would be blown away by an offer anything is possible. Just wouldn't hold my breath.

Suddenly my rationale for how idiotic to trade Arozarena reveals itself. Especially if O'Brien is traded for a guy who won't peak until 2031.


Here's why you would trade O'Brien:
1. You don't believe in his stuff long term.
2. The other team overpays with 'near MLB ready' talent.

I would trade OBrien if I knew who I was trading him for would contribute on the MLB roster at the very latest OD 2027...