The St. Louis Cardinals are expected to have an eventful offseason, likely exploring the trade market aggressively. Players like Sonny Gray and Nolan Arenado could be on the move, but Brendan Donovan might be the most compelling trade asset.
Donovan is coming off a strong season and could command a solid return. With his contract set to expire after the 2027 season and a long-term extension seeming unlikely, trading him now could be a strategic move for St. Louis.
MLB analyst Jim Riley recently predicted that the Cardinals will part ways with Donovan this offseason, potentially sending him to the New York Yankees — a team in urgent need of reinforcements following Cody Bellinger’s decision to opt out of his deal.
“Brendan Donovan’s versatility is key here,” Riley said in a YouTube video. “Brendan Donovan could play second base, and you can move Jazz (Chisholm Jr.) to the outfield to help replace the departing outfielders, Cody Bellinger and Trent Grisham. Or Brendan Donovan himself could go to left field where he has played. Brendan Donovan can play almost anywhere.”
Brendan Donovan had an impressive season and brings exceptional defensive versatility that could make a major impact wherever he lands. He’s capable of filling in at first base as a potential replacement for Paul Goldschmidt, while also being a strong option at second base, third base, or even in the corner outfield spots.
Offensively, Donovan’s bat fits perfectly with what the Yankees are currently seeking — a consistent, contact-oriented hitter who can lengthen the lineup and provide flexibility across the field.
“The versatility is key, and also the plate approach,” Riley said. “These are the kinds of guys that the New York Yankees need to add to their lineup so that it is less strikeouts, more on base, more contact.”
With Bellinger on the open market, a trade like this could make a lot of sense. That would slide Judge back to center field for the time being while Donovan plays a super-utility role.
Either way, Donovan is the perfect hitter for what the Yankees are doing. They have 10 guys on their roster who can slug the long ball. Adding a high-contact guy to supplement them would be perfect.
Leave a Reply