As January enters its final stretch, Brendan Donovan is still on the Cardinals’ roster—but that status may not hold for long. Interest in the versatile infielder continues to grow, with the Seattle Mariners and San Francisco Giants frequently mentioned among potential suitors. Also in the mix are the Boston Red Sox, who have quickly become St. Louis’ most common trade partner this offseason.
The Cardinals have already sent Willson Contreras, Sonny Gray, and Steven Matz to Boston, and recent developments could make Donovan an even stronger fit. The Red Sox may now have a vacancy at second base, depending on how they choose to deploy top prospect Marcelo Mayer.
After Alex Bregman declined Boston’s offer and instead signed with the Chicago Cubs, the Red Sox were forced to adjust their plans at third base. According to The Athletic, a source close to the team indicated that Boston would prefer Mayer to handle third base rather than second before eventually sliding over to shortstop in 2027, once Trevor Story’s contract expires.
If Mayer settles in at third, that alignment could open the door for Donovan to step in at second base. While Donovan is capable of handling multiple positions, his limited power output doesn’t fit the typical profile of a corner infielder. Second base is likely his most natural landing spot, where his flexibility would only add value. One potential obstacle, however, is Red Sox President of Baseball Operations Craig Breslow’s emphasis on elite defense at the position. Donovan rated slightly below average defensively at second base in 2025, posting minus-two defensive runs saved, per FanGraphs.
Boston does have another option in Cubs shortstop Nico Hoerner. While Hoerner is an excellent defender, Chicago has signaled reluctance to move him despite his free agency looming after the 2026 season. Additionally, The Athletic reports that any Hoerner deal would require both a major league pitcher and a prospect—terms that could complicate negotiations.
That dynamic works in St. Louis’ favor. With the Cardinals not expecting to contend in 2026, they have little need for established major league arms. As a result, Boston’s cost to acquire Donovan would likely be far more manageable than pursuing Hoerner, especially for a Red Sox team focused on contending immediately and hesitant to part with big-league contributors.
During Winter Warm-Ups, Cardinals President of Baseball Operations Chaim Bloom stated that he would “ideally” like to resolve Donovan’s situation before spring training. While Donovan is under team control for two more seasons and doesn’t have to be moved right away, his trade value is unlikely to peak higher than it is now. From Bloom’s perspective, increased interest from clubs like Boston only strengthens St. Louis’ leverage. With multiple teams circling, Bloom appears well-positioned to secure a strong return.
