Cardinals Should Consider Michael Kopech and Danny Coulombe for Reinforcement
With Spring Training in full swing, the St. Louis Cardinals have an opportunity to strengthen their roster ahead of the upcoming season. Despite the proximity of Opening Day, there are still valuable players available, and the Cardinals should explore the reliever market for potential additions.
The team recently demonstrated its willingness to sign a veteran reliever by acquiring Ryne Stanek, who had a challenging 2025 season with the New York Mets, posting a 5.30 ERA in 56 innings. However, Stanek's career ERA stands at 3.85 across nine big league seasons and 466 appearances, indicating his potential as a reliable reliever.
The Cardinals should focus on two promising pitchers: Michael Kopech and Danny Coulombe.
Michael Kopech, a 29-year-old flamethrower, showcased his talent with a 2.45 ERA in 14 appearances for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2025, spanning 11 innings. Kopech's fastball velocity was exceptional, ranking in the 92nd percentile in 2025 and the 98th percentile in 2024, according to Baseball Savant. His performance suggests significant upside, making him a desirable addition.
Danny Coulombe, a 36-year-old left-hander, had a stellar 2025 season with the Minnesota Twins and Texas Rangers, logging a 2.30 ERA in 55 outings. In 2024, he maintained a 2.12 ERA in 33 appearances with the Baltimore Orioles. Coulombe's consistent performance since 2018, with no season ERA above 3.67, further solidifies his value as a reliable reliever.
Adding Kopech or Coulombe would significantly enhance the Cardinals' bullpen, providing immediate relief while also positioning the team as a potential trade candidate in the summer. This move aligns with the team's long-term strategy of cutting payroll by trading players like Nolan Arenado, Willson Contreras, Sonny Gray, and Brendan Donovan. Allocating resources towards a reliever would be a strategic decision to bolster the team's performance in the short term.
For more insights on the Cardinals and other MLB topics, visit Sports Illustrated (https://www.si.com/mlb/cardinals/onsi/st-louis-cardinals-news/the-quiet-roster-decision-that-could-shape-cardinals-s-first-month-pat3).
