The Seattle Mariners are reportedly close to finalizing a trade for all-star Brendan Donovan from the St. Louis Cardinals. This deal marks a significant move for both the Mariners and the Cardinals, as it also involves the Tampa Bay Rays.
Overview of Brendan Donovan’s Performance
Brendan Donovan, 29, was a standout player for the Cardinals during the 2025 season. His impressive stats included:
- Batting average: .287
- On-base percentage: .353
- Slugging percentage: .422
- Home runs: 10
- Doubles: 32
- RBIs: 50
- Games played: 118
Donovan’s versatility has been a key asset for the Cardinals. He has played nearly every position on the field, excluding pitcher, catcher, and center field. His defensive skills earned him the National League Utility Gold Glove during his rookie year.
Contract Status and Arbitration
As a four-year MLB veteran, Donovan is entering his arbitration eligibility. MLB Trade Rumors estimates that he will earn approximately $5.4 million in the upcoming season. He remains under team control for the next two years, making him an appealing acquisition for the Mariners.
Cardinals’ Offseason Moves
This trade is part of a broader trend of roster changes for the Cardinals. The team recently offloaded notable players, including:
- Nolan Arenado to the Arizona Diamondbacks
- Sonny Gray to the Boston Red Sox
With these departures, the Cardinals are clearly in a rebuilding phase, aiming to adjust their lineup for the future.
Impact on the Mariners
After the departure of slugger Eugenio Suarez, who signed a one-year deal with the Cincinnati Reds, Donovan is expected to fill the third base position for the Mariners. His arrival could strengthen the Mariners’ offense as they look to improve upon their playoff run.
This potential trade for Brendan Donovan not only highlights the Mariners’ intent to enhance their roster but also signals a new direction for the Cardinals as they navigate a transformative offseason.
