St. Louis Cardinals infielder Brendan Donovan has emerged as one of the most frequently mentioned players in MLB trade rumors this offseason. After an underwhelming season, the Cardinals appear to be reassessing their competitive direction, with growing speculation that the franchise may be headed toward a retooling phase or even a full rebuild. If that happens, dealing a productive yet controllable player like Donovan would make strategic sense. Although he is not a superstar who typically anchors blockbuster trades, Donovan’s versatility, consistency, and recent performance make him a valuable piece for teams looking to adjust their rosters.
Donovan’s development over the last few years has been notable. He established himself as a dependable everyday contributor before taking another leap forward last season, earning a National League All-Star selection. That honor solidified his standing as one of the league’s more complete infielders. Offensively, Donovan is known for his contact-heavy approach, strong on-base skills, and plate discipline—qualities that are highly prized in today’s game. Defensively, his ability to play multiple infield spots, along with occasional outfield duties, enhances his value and allows him to fit seamlessly onto nearly any roster.
Given that versatility, it’s no surprise that Donovan continues to draw interest around the league. Contending teams appreciate players who can fill multiple roles without disrupting the lineup, while rebuilding clubs value players under team control who can offer reliability during transitional periods. Donovan satisfies both needs, which explains why his name keeps surfacing in trade conversations.
Further fueling speculation, Curt Bishop of St. Louis Cardinals OnSi recently proposed a mock trade that would send Donovan to the Seattle Mariners. In his scenario, St. Louis would receive three prospects: Jurrangelo Cijntje, Michael Arroyo, and Lazaro Montes. From the Cardinals’ standpoint, the proposal appears logical, particularly considering their organizational needs. The farm system has been criticized for lacking pitching depth and overall balance, and Bishop suggests this trade could help address those concerns.
Cijntje stands out as the most intriguing piece. Ranked as Seattle’s No. 7 prospect, the switch-pitcher has gained attention for his rare ability to throw with both arms. While he remains a work in progress, his upside and uniqueness make him an appealing asset. Bishop argues that St. Louis could see Cijntje as a worthwhile risk as they look to replenish their pitching pipeline, especially since rebuilding teams can afford patience with high-ceiling arms.
Arroyo adds offensive balance as a right-handed hitter, an area where the Cardinals’ system could use reinforcement. His bat projects as a potential contributor at the major league level, making him a valuable developmental piece. Montes, meanwhile, would bolster future outfield depth. With prospects like Joshua Baez already in the pipeline and potentially nearing MLB readiness by 2026, adding Montes would further strengthen the organization’s long-term options.
From St. Louis’ perspective, the rationale is clear. Turning an established major leaguer into multiple high-upside prospects is often a key step in accelerating a rebuild. However, the proposed deal looks far less reasonable when examined from Seattle’s viewpoint. Sending three top prospects to acquire Donovan alone would represent a significant overreach.
While Donovan is undeniably a strong player, he is not a transformational talent. The Mariners have invested heavily in building their farm system, and players like Cijntje, Arroyo, and Montes are central to their future plans. Losing all three in a single transaction would severely weaken their long-term outlook. For a team that has faced challenges developing consistent offensive production, parting with multiple high-upside bats and arms would be particularly risky.
That said, the on-field fit between Donovan and Seattle is undeniable. The Mariners face uncertainty in the infield following Jorge Polanco’s departure in free agency, along with questions surrounding Eugenio Suárez’s future. Those potential losses leave clear holes if Seattle hopes to stay competitive in the American League. Donovan’s ability to play second base, third base, or move around as needed would provide immediate stability.
Offensively, Donovan would also complement Seattle’s lineup well. The Mariners have struggled with strikeouts and inconsistency, and his patient, contact-focused approach could help balance the offense. While he is not a power hitter, his on-base skills and ability to extend at-bats would bring a different and valuable element to the lineup.
Ultimately, this is where the balance must be struck. Seattle should seriously consider pursuing Brendan Donovan, as he addresses real needs and would improve the team in the short term. However, they must avoid overpaying. Giving up a trio of elite prospects for a very good—but not irreplaceable—player would be a mistake.
If the Mariners can negotiate a deal that brings Donovan aboard without dismantling their farm system, the move could benefit both teams. If not, Seattle would be better off exploring other options or holding firm for a more reasonable package. Donovan may be worth targeting, but not at the expense of the organization’s long-term future.
