Overview
- MLB announced O’Brien’s addition to the National League All‑Star team as an injury replacement in early July, a selection reported across multiple outlets.
- O’Brien is tied for the National League lead with 22 saves this season and has been the Cardinals’ primary late‑inning option after breaking out in 2026.
- His role traces to a late‑2025 move into high‑leverage work that prepared him mentally for closing, and he reached the majors in 2021 after stops with the Reds and Mariners.
- Media reports have linked the Dodgers to O’Brien as a trade target because Los Angeles has multiple veteran relievers on the injured list and needs reliable late‑inning arms.
- Analysts point to O’Brien’s multi‑year club control, two‑pitch profile with a near‑98 mph fastball and recent uneven stretches as factors that boost his trade value while creating questions buyers will weigh before the August 3 deadline.