JUST IN: Cardinals Closing in on Game-Changing Multi-Year Extension with Veteran Star

If you need further proof that the St. Louis Cardinals see their slugger as a crucial part of their future, their active pursuit of a long-term extension with him should make it clear.

According to reports, the Cardinals are discussing a multi-year deal with Donovan ahead of today’s deadline to settle agreements with arbitration-eligible players. While the two sides may not finalize an extension today, there’s optimism that an agreement could come together soon.

The Cardinals are also exploring a long-term deal with Lars Nootbaar, although negotiations appear less likely to result in an agreement before the season starts.

Since his debut in 2022, Donovan has established himself as one of the Cardinals’ top performers and a clubhouse leader. At last year’s Winter Warm-Up, coaches, front office staff, and teammates praised his impact on and off the field, solidifying his role as a cornerstone player the team wants to retain for the long haul.

A deep analysis of what a potential deal might look like suggests that early projections align with recent speculation. In 374 career games, Donovan has contributed a 7.4 fWAR and a 119 wRC+, excelling defensively across multiple positions while delivering offensive production 20% above league average. At nearly 28 years old, he’s entering his prime, making this an ideal time for the Cardinals to secure his services with a multi-year extension.

If the Cardinals allow Donovan to play through his arbitration years, he’d reach free agency at 31 in 2028. Given his league-wide appeal, it might be difficult to re-sign him at a favorable rate by then. Locking him in now could allow the Cardinals to avoid those challenges and ensure cost control through his most productive years.

For context, after signing a contract to buy out his arbitration years with the Cardinals, Tommy Edman inked a five-year, $74 million deal with the Dodgers a year later. While Donovan’s deal might come in at a slightly lower figure, it highlights the premium placed on versatile players like him and Edman. Although Edman’s defensive versatility gives him an edge at positions like shortstop and center field, Donovan’s offensive consistency is a significant asset.

In an otherwise quiet offseason for the Cardinals, the possibility of Donovan securing a long-term deal is a welcome development.

Stay tuned for updates on this situation, along with news about other arbitration-eligible players on the Cardinals, such as Nootbaar, Ryan Helsley, JoJo Romero, and John King.