Cardinals Option Struggling Fernandez to Triple-A, Recall O'Brien

The St. Louis Cardinals have optioned struggling right-handed reliever Ryan Fernandez to Triple-A Memphis and recalled Riley O'Brien to bolster their bullpen. Fernandez, who was a key bullpen contributor last season with a 3.51 ERA, has struggled this year with an ERA over 11 and recently allowed a crucial three-run homer in a loss to the Braves. Manager Oliver Marmol emphasized the move was intended to help Fernandez regain his confidence and effectiveness in a lower-pressure environment. O’Brien, who was acquired from the Mariners and has performed well in Memphis with 14 strikeouts over seven innings, is expected to provide much-needed support for a Cardinals bullpen that currently ranks near the bottom of MLB in ERA. The bullpen shakeup comes as the Cardinals look to improve their performance after a disappointing start to the season.