The Seattle Mariners had three big free agents hit the open market this winter. So far, three different outcomes have come to fruition. Josh Naylor is back in Seattle, Eugenio Suarez is still unsigned, but Jorge Polanco signed with the New York Mets.
Amid the departure of one of their key infielders from the 2025 season, the Mariners have a clear need to go after this winter. Fortunately, the Mariners have a few second base options, and they've already emerged as a frontrunner for one such option.
According to Katie Woo of The Athletic, the Mariners have emerged as a frontrunner alongside the San Francisco Giants for St. Louis Cardinals Gold Glove infielder Brendan Donovan.
Mariners emerge as front-runner for elite Jorge Polanco replacement
"The Seattle Mariners and San Francisco Giants have emerged as front-runners for St. Louis Cardinals infielder Brendan Donovan, sources familiar with negotiations tell The Athletic," Woo writes, "with the Cardinals looking to land multiple top prospects in return."
While the Cardinals are seeking a strong return for Donovan, the Mariners have the prospect capital necessary to facilitate such a blockbuster trade.
Donovan doesn't carry the same weight as another trade target, Arizona Diamondbacks Ketel Marte, but he would be a high-quality addition for the Mariners' infield.
The Cardinals' 28-year-old second baseman can also play in the outfield if needed, giving Seattle some options if they do wind up trading for him.
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An All-Star and Gold Glove infielder, Donovan isn't a power-hitter, but he's coming off a.287 hitting season with a.775 OPS thanks to a.353 on-base-percentage.
Donovan doesn't strike out often, and while he doesn't generate a lot of walks, he makes contact frequently and would be a quality addition to the lineup as someone who can put the ball in play.
He's a consistent hitter, a quality fielder, and most importantly, wouldn't be a one-year rental. Donovan is under club control through the 2027 season, meaning that Seattle would have two years with him before he hits free agency if they pull off this deal.
While other names might draw more attention this winter, Donovan might be exactly what the Mariners need. He's a good defender, with quality hitting, and would be a great Polanco replacement.
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