Who Fits the Cardinals’ Plans for 2027? | Claibs & Joe

Mike Claiborne joins Joe Roderick for another edition of Claibs & Joe on STL Sports Central, with the 2026 Cardinals season nearing the finish line and football season kicking into high gear. Claibs and Joe break down what the Cardinals have learned during an evaluation-heavy season and look ahead to some of the biggest questions facing the club in 2027. They discuss Riley O’Brien’s recent struggles and the future of the closer role, Matthew Liberatore’s place on the pitching staff, the Cardinals’ options at third base, and whether prospects like Rainiel Rodriguez could eventually factor into the equation. They also examine what the final games of the season could mean for several players fighting for roles next year. Then the conversation shifts to football, including the changing landscape of college football, the transfer portal’s impact on recruiting and roster building, early-season conference matchups, and why it’s becoming harder to evaluate teams in September. Plus, Claibs gives his thoughts on the opening of the NFL season, Buffalo’s outlook, and why Week 1 results shouldn’t always be taken at face value. Sponsored by: Graybar Draft Kings Painting and Decorating Foundation Collinsville Auto Body Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices