When the Cardinals traded away star closer Ryan Helsley, standout setup man Phil Maton and swingman Steven Matz, they thrusted lefty JoJo Romero and righty Riley O'Brien into much higher leverage roles.

They likely never could have imagined that both would be this good so far in 2026.

Arguably the Cardinals’ most valuable reliever because of his wipe-out stuff against left-handed hitters and his ability to cover multiple innings, Romero has yet to give up an earned run through his first nine appearances over 10 1/3 innings of work. Just six of the 39 batters Romero has faced have hits and he’s already compiled five holds.

As for O'Brien, he has pitched in 10 games and 10 1/3 innings and he also hasn't given up a run. Already, he’s 2-0 with five saves – numbers quickly approaching his best season totals – and foes are hitting a paltry .118 against him.

Thoughts on a Cardinals one-two punch that has been nearly perfect so far this season?