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Mariners and Giants Lead Pursuit of Cardinals Infielder Brendan Donovan
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St. Louis is seeking a importent return in prospects for the versatile Donovan, while also exploring trades for key players like Willson Contreras and Nolan Arenado.
The St. Louis Cardinals are actively engaging in trade discussions, with infielder Brendan Donovan emerging as a key target for both the Seattle Mariners and San Francisco Giants, sources familiar with negotiations revealed on Saturday.The Cardinals, under first-year president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom, are prioritizing the acquisition of multiple top prospects in any deal involving Donovan, who is under team control through the 2027 season.
Cardinals’ Rebuild Fuels Trade activity
Bloom, who joined the Cardinals after a tenure with the Boston Red Sox, has signaled a clear commitment to a long-term rebuild. This strategy was demonstrated by his November trade of ace pitcher Sonny Gray to Boston, a move that prioritized future assets over immediate contention. “When we have to choose between short-term gratification and our bigger goal of contending consistently,we will choose the long term,” Bloom stated during his introductory press conference.
This philosophy is now directly influencing the Cardinals’ approach to Donovan, who has drawn interest from over half of the league. According to team sources, St. Louis will not trade the 28-year-old unless they receive a “blown away” offer.The Mariners have been linked to Donovan for several weeks, and trade momentum is “picking up” following the conclusion of the MLB Winter Meetings on Wednesday.
Potential Trade Pieces Emerge
The Mariners have reportedly expressed interest in pitcher Jurrangelo Cijntje, a first-round draft pick in 2024 known for his ability to pitch with both arms, and outfielder Lazaro Montes. The Cardinals also have existing familiarity with Seattle’s pitching system, as Director of Pitching Matt Pierpont previously spent four seasons with the Mariners before joining St. louis ahead of the 2025 season. Seattle’s motivation to add a player like Donovan may also stem from losing Jorge Polanco to the New York Mets.
The Giants, simultaneously occurring, are proving to be equally aggressive in their pursuit of Donovan, discussing several top prospects, including infielder Gavin Kilen and left-hander Carson Whisenhunt.A league source indicated that at least two organizational prospects woudl likely be required to finalize a deal.
Beyond Donovan: Multiple Cardinals Players on the Block
Donovan is not the only Cardinal attracting trade interest. The team continues to explore the market for catcher Willson Contreras, whose willingness to waive his full no-trade clause for the right opportunity could facilitate a deal. The Boston Red Sox have emerged as a potential suitor,with both clubs possessing a pre-existing relationship. While no deal is imminent, the connection is being closely monitored.
The Cardinals are also attempting to find a trade partner for All-Star third baseman Nolan Arenado, who also has a full no-trade clause. Bloom has publicly stated that releasing Arenado is “not an option,” but a market for the veteran player has yet to materialize.
The Cardinals recently signed right-hander Dustin May to a one-year contract on Saturday, signaling a shift towards addressing immediate needs while concurrently pursuing long-term gains through strategic trades. The
