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Cardinals lose late again as O'Brien collapses in ninth inning

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 21, 2026, 5:00 AM

Last updated Jul 21, 2026

Cardinals lose late again as O'Brien collapses in ninth inning

Summary

In a game on July 20, 2026, the St. Louis Cardinals fell to the Los Angeles Angels, 3-2, due to a ninth-inning collapse by All-Star closer Riley O'Brien. O'Brien entered the final frame with a strong save record but managed to retire only one batter while allowing two runs. After a double by Vaughn Grissom brought in one run, O'Brien hit Jo Adell with a pitch, resulting in a walk-off run. This loss marked another disappointment for the Cardinals, who had recently blown a seven-run lead against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Prior to the game, ex-Cardinals executive John Mozeliak connected with friends from his former team during his visit.

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By the Numbers

•Riley O'Brien allowed two runs in the ninth inning.
•Cardinals led early with a 2-0 score after two innings.
•O'Brien entered the game with a strong save percentage.
•Kyle Leahy pitched six strong innings, allowing one run.
•The loss follows a previous game where Cardinals blew a seven-run lead.

Latest Updates

5:00 AMYahoo Sports — All-Star Closer Suffers Epic Ninth Inning Collapse as Cardinals Lose Late Again

What they're saying

"
All-Star closer Riley O'Brien came into Monday having notched saves in 25 of his 29 opportunities, but he melted down by retiring just one hitter in the ninth inning as the Angels rallied for a 3-2 win over the Cardinals. O'Brien hit two batters in the final frame to lead to the loss.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Los Angeles Angels Oakland Athletics St. Louis Cardinals MLB Baseball