Mariners Acquire Brendan Donovan in Three-Team Trade, Boosting Offense and Depth
The Seattle Mariners have bolstered their roster with the acquisition of versatile infielder Brendan Donovan, who is heading to the Pacific Northwest as part of a three-team trade. The deal sends Donovan to Seattle, while the St. Louis Cardinals are receiving right-handed pitcher Jurrangelo Cijntje, outfielders Tai Peete and Colton Ledbetter, and two competitive-balance Round B picks. The Tampa Bay Rays will receive third baseman Ben Williamson in exchange for Donovan.
Last season, Donovan had a breakout campaign, hitting .287 with 10 home runs and 50 RBIs in just 118 games. He also led the team in doubles with 32 and recorded a 2.7 WAR (Wins Above Replacement). The Cardinals had been in talks to sign Donovan to a long-term deal, but negotiations ultimately fell through.
The addition of Donovan addresses a need for the Mariners at second and third base, both positions where he has significant experience. In fact, Donovan has played multiple positions throughout his career, including shortstop, right field, and left field. His versatility makes him an attractive asset to Seattle, which is looking to build depth in its lineup.
The trade also enhances the Mariners' top of the order, adding another All-Star caliber player to a list that already includes Josh Naylor, Cal Raleigh, Randy Arozarena, and Julio Rodríguez. The deal has significant implications for the team's chances in 2026, as Seattle looks to rebound from missing out on the World Series last season.
Seattle's postseason push was thwarted by Toronto in the American League Championship Series (ALCS). However, with Donovan joining the fold, the Mariners are looking more formidable than ever. This move is a significant step forward for the team, which is eager to re-establish itself as a contender in the AL West.
The Seattle Mariners have bolstered their roster with the acquisition of versatile infielder Brendan Donovan, who is heading to the Pacific Northwest as part of a three-team trade. The deal sends Donovan to Seattle, while the St. Louis Cardinals are receiving right-handed pitcher Jurrangelo Cijntje, outfielders Tai Peete and Colton Ledbetter, and two competitive-balance Round B picks. The Tampa Bay Rays will receive third baseman Ben Williamson in exchange for Donovan.
Last season, Donovan had a breakout campaign, hitting .287 with 10 home runs and 50 RBIs in just 118 games. He also led the team in doubles with 32 and recorded a 2.7 WAR (Wins Above Replacement). The Cardinals had been in talks to sign Donovan to a long-term deal, but negotiations ultimately fell through.
The addition of Donovan addresses a need for the Mariners at second and third base, both positions where he has significant experience. In fact, Donovan has played multiple positions throughout his career, including shortstop, right field, and left field. His versatility makes him an attractive asset to Seattle, which is looking to build depth in its lineup.
The trade also enhances the Mariners' top of the order, adding another All-Star caliber player to a list that already includes Josh Naylor, Cal Raleigh, Randy Arozarena, and Julio Rodríguez. The deal has significant implications for the team's chances in 2026, as Seattle looks to rebound from missing out on the World Series last season.
Seattle's postseason push was thwarted by Toronto in the American League Championship Series (ALCS). However, with Donovan joining the fold, the Mariners are looking more formidable than ever. This move is a significant step forward for the team, which is eager to re-establish itself as a contender in the AL West.