Cardinals would achieve perfect offseason start by capitalizing on mutual reunion interest with JoJo Romero

Normally when you trade a player to a division rival, that spells the end of his tenure with the team. However, despite pulling off that exact maneuver with JoJo Romero at the trade deadline, there's some smoke on the reunion fires in St. Louis.

The southpaw, who wound up winning the World Series with the Milwaukee Brewers, was a staple in the Cardinals' bullpen over the past handful of season. He really found his groove in 2025, recording a 2.07 ERA and locking down eight saves after Ryan Helsley was moved at the trade deadline, ultimately emerging as a top-four reliever on a champion this year.

Now, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch is reporting mutual interest in a reunion between both parties, which insider Jeff Jones has corroborated.

Cardinals have every reason to re-sign JoJo Romero, who now comes equipped with championship experience

In case you're wondering, there is precedent for something like this in recent history. Ten years ago, the Yankees traded Aroldis Chapman to the Cubs, with whom he won a title. Then, the lefty closer hit free agency and re-signed in New York on a five-year deal.

Romero is obviously a less high-profile reliever than prime Chapman was, but it's amazing what wonders a trophy can do for hurt feelings. If anything, Romero is probably ecstatic that the Cardinals traded him away, which means there shouldn't be much (if any) animosity to navigate in these negotiations.

We also don't need to do much analyzing of his "fit" with the Redbirds -- we know Romero can thrive in this organization. With Riley O'Brien having locked down the closer role after a 38-save campaign, the free-agent southpaw can return to a top set-up man role, which is a big need since Justin Bruihl is currently the only lefty slated to be in the Cardinals' Opening Day bullpen next year.

Remember, even with half a season of Romero, the Cardinals ranked 22nd in fWAR from left-handed relievers (0.5) this past season. That's not a tenable position to be in if they hope to compete in the near-future, especially after the Brewers just proved how important it is to have effective relievers who can throw from both sides.

Most projections forecast Romero earning between $6-8 million over multiple years on his next contract, which is only a modest bump from his $4.26 million salary in 2026. The Cardinals, who have massive payroll flexibility right now, could easily afford to invest that much in a reliable set-up man.

Given the truncated nature of this offseason due to the impending lockout, it's possible (if not likely) that a deal that reunites Romero and the Redbirds comes together rather quickly.

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