They are still the go to I think. Backed by a Warshrine they are a resilient tar pit that can actually pump out reliable attacks.
No need for the Exalted DB. Just have a character babysit them, Secretor maybe to buff the attacks. Whether you use the Ex. DB&s Command Ability or the generic “no battleshock” you are using only one command point.
Also, since we can’t double up on Blessings, Brazen Fury would be nice on the Shrine, then you don’t have to worry about using a command point if you don’t have to.