Closer Jason Isringhausen will be back in St. Louis next year, after the team picked up his $8 million option Friday night. The 35-year-old Isringhausen was 32-for-34 in save opportunities, a year after missing the postseason following hip surgery. He also finished with 54 strikeouts and a 2.48 ERA in 65 1/3 innings. "Izzy recovered from hip surgery this year to fully earn his position as the Cardinals' closer," interim GM John Mozeliak said. "He will no doubt play a vital role in the bullpen's success in 2008, just as he's done in years past."