The San Francisco Giants and Seattle Mariners are reportedly the top teams looking to trade for All-Star second baseman Brendan Donovan from the St. Louis Cardinals, according to The Athletic. Donovan, 28, has been a consistent performer over his four-year MLB career and earned his first All-Star selection last season.
Brendan Donovan’s Performance
In 2025, Donovan primarily played second base, while in 2024, he spent most of his time in left field, showing his versatility. Last season, he played in 118 games and posted impressive stats, hitting .287/.353/.422 with 32 doubles, 10 home runs, and 50 RBIs. In 2024, Donovan set career highs with 34 doubles, 14 home runs, and 73 RBIs.
Trade Possibilities for the Giants
Sources report that the Giants and Cardinals have discussed including top prospects in a potential trade for Donovan. Names mentioned include:
- Carson Whisenhunt, a 25-year-old left-handed pitcher who made his MLB debut last season. He struggled with a 5.01 ERA over 23 1/3 innings but remains San Francisco’s No. 7 prospect according to MLB Pipeline.
- Gavin Kilen, San Francisco’s No. 3 prospect and 2025 first-round draft pick. Kilen played 10 games in Low A San Jose, hitting .205, and previously played under manager Tony Vitello at Tennessee.
However, the Cardinals are reportedly unwilling to trade Donovan unless they are “blown away by the return,” which means the Giants will need a strong offer to beat the Mariners, who have one of the best minor league systems in baseball.
Donovan’s Value and Future
Donovan isn’t just a one-year rental; he is arbitration-eligible for 2026 and 2027. MLB Trade Rumors projects his salary next season to be $5.4 million. He could provide the Giants with a versatile option, splitting time at second base with Casey Schmitt, who underwent left wrist surgery this offseason and is expected to be ready for spring training.
Schmitt’s Outlook
Giants GM Zack Minasian shared optimism about Schmitt’s recovery and development. “We don’t think he’ll be slowed during spring training at all. He made positive strides last year, improving at-bat quality and learning a new position. There’s still upside, and I’m excited to see what he can do,” Minasian said.
Conclusion
If the Giants successfully acquire Brendan Donovan, they would gain an All-Star with multi-position versatility, strengthening their lineup for the 2026 season. Donovan’s presence could allow the team to rotate players like Schmitt and maximize their defensive flexibility, while also boosting offensive production. The trade, if it happens, could be a game-changer for the Giants as they aim to compete at the top of the National League.
