MLB Rumors: New Trade Candidate Emerging For St. Louis Cardinals
Two years of arbitration control, a career 119 wRC+, elite contact skills, and true Swiss-army versatility at second, third, short in a pinch, and both corner outfield spots.
If Chaim Bloom leans into a fuller reset, moving Donovan for impact pitching or a multi-piece package makes real sense. If the Cardinals bet on a faster turnaround, extending him is the safer play.
Alec Burleson and Brendan Donovan are finalists for the utility position Silver Slugger Award!
— SleeperSTLCards (@SleeperSTL) October 22, 2025
Burly and Donnie deserve huge props for great seasons 👏 pic.twitter.com/GW3JJ8Vavc
Best fits for a Brendan Donovan trade
The San Francisco Giants can drop Donovan at second base, then shield him from tough southpaws with righty depth while stealing reps in both corners.
The New York Yankees have left field and shortstop coverage questions early next year, so Donovan’s glove and on-base game stabilize the floor while Anthony Volpe ramps back.
The Los Angeles Angels desperately need contact and lefty balance, and Donovan instantly improves their strikeout profile.
the Brendan Donovan & Jimmy the Cat relationship is what life is all about ❤️ pic.twitter.com/VDE1PF672I
— Stew (@StewStilez) August 12, 2025
The Seattle Mariners can win now while prospects mature, using Donovan at second or third until Cole Young and Colt Emerson take full-time roles.
The San Diego Padres and Texas Rangers both gain lineup balance and moving parts flexibility, with paths at third or the outfield if internal dominoes fall.
What it costs, and why the Cardinals might keep him
With a projected $5.4M salary in 2026 and one more arb year, the ask should be a controllable starting pitcher or a headliner prospect plus a secondary piece.
Clubs that miss on pricier bats will circle back, which can lift the return. St. Louis should only deal him if they land rotation certainty or multiple long-term assets. Otherwise, keep Donovan, consider an extension, and let his bat, approach, and leadership guide a shorter rebuild.
His floor is high, his fit is universal, and his value does not rely on one defensive home.
Photo Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
