The St. Louis Cardinals have been let down by their bullpen on several occasions this season, with Wednesday’s loss to the San Francisco Giants serving as the latest example. St. Louis appeared to be in complete control, holding a 6-1 lead with two outs and a runner on base in the eighth inning. However, the Giants quickly erased that advantage and completely changed the outcome of the game.
Aside from Justin Bruihl and Gordon Graceffo, the Cardinals’ bullpen has struggled significantly over the past few months. Regardless of whether St. Louis plans to compete for a postseason spot in 2027, strengthening the bullpen should remain a priority. The team needs more reliable arms to avoid another difficult season. Here are three potential options the Cardinals could consider.
Aroldis Chapman
Aroldis Chapman may be the least realistic of the three options, primarily because he is expected to command a higher salary than the other available relievers. Still, he probably won’t receive more than a one-year contract, perhaps with a team or player option attached. Chapman is an experienced and dependable bullpen arm who has previously been moved at the trade deadline and could potentially bring back a strong return. The Cardinals could even consider signing him with the intention of trading him later.
The 38-year-old has posted a 3-4 record, a 2.03 ERA, and 33 saves in 50 appearances for the Boston Red Sox this season. Although his fastball velocity has declined somewhat from its peak, Chapman can still reach 100 mph. His résumé also includes nine All-Star selections and two American League Reliever of the Year awards.
Paul Sewald
Paul Sewald drew some criticism and became the subject of jokes after voicing his frustration with the Cardinals over how they handled a rainout at Busch Stadium. Putting that incident aside, however, Sewald has a proven history of being a dependable bullpen arm and has plenty of experience pitching in the ninth inning.
Although the 36-year-old right-hander has struggled to a 5.10 ERA this season, he has recorded 24 saves and remains an experienced reliever. Sewald was also an important part of the Arizona Diamondbacks’ run to the World Series in 2023. Beyond what he could provide on the mound, his veteran experience could make him a valuable mentor for St. Louis’ younger pitchers.
Matt Strahm
With JoJo Romero gone, the Cardinals could use a left-hander in their bullpen. Strahm is a free agent at the end of the year and can be used in high-leverage spots. It’s uncertain whether or not Justin Bruihl will be able to repeat his success from this year, so signing Strahm as an insurance policy would make sense.
Unfortunately, the 34-year-old has posted a 7.32 ERA in 41 appearances with the Kansas City Royals, but he’s somebody the Cardinals can take a flyer on that is hoping to rebuild his value.
