What's Happening?
Riley O'Brien, a reliever for the St. Louis Cardinals, has been cleared to play catch after undergoing an MRI for right shoulder discomfort. The imaging results were encouraging, allowing O'Brien to resume throwing. While a stint on the 15-day injured list has not been ruled out, the Cardinals are hopeful that O'Brien can avoid a long-term absence. O'Brien has been a key late-inning bullpen arm for the team this season, boasting a 1.69 ERA and 35:17 K:BB over 37.1 innings, along with two saves.
Why It's Important?
O'Brien's potential return without a stint on the injured list is crucial for the Cardinals, who rely on his performance in late-game situations. His absence could have disrupted the bullpen's effectiveness, impacting the team's ability to close out games. Maintaining a strong bullpen is essential for the Cardinals as they aim to remain competitive in their division. O'Brien's health and availability could play a significant role in the team's success as they navigate the remainder of the season.
