After Seattle Mariners second baseman Jorge Polanco entered free agency and ultimately signed with the New York Mets, the Mariners have been actively working to fill his position and keep their roster flexible.
While there have been talks about a possible reunion with Eugenio Suárez, that alone wouldn’t solve Seattle’s infield coverage concerns. Suárez would likely return primarily as a designated hitter who occasionally covers the hot corner. His defensive play last season makes it unlikely the Mariners would utilize him as a full-time third baseman again. Especially as they look toward the future of the team.
That uncertainty has led to the consideration of other options for the team. FanSided’s Cody Williams believes he’s identified the ideal target that will help round out the Mariners 2026 lineup.
Williams predicts the St. Louis Cardinals could trade Brendan Donovan to the Mariners before the end of the offseason. A move that could seriously strengthen Seattle’s roster. Something they need as they continue their pursuit of the franchise’s first-ever World Series appearance, and potentially first championship.
Williams’ Predictions
According to Williams, Seattle appears to be the frontrunner to land Donovan. A belief that he says has gained traction among insiders since Winter Meetings.
“The Seattle Mariners have been installed as the favorites for Donovan by insiders basically since the Winter Meetings, and it makes perfect sense.” Williams wrote. “The M’s aren’t looking to take a step back after last season’s run to the ALCS, but they also have already re-signed Josh Naylor while not expressing a ton of interest in reuniting with Eugenio Suarez and with Jorge Polanco signing with the Mets.”
Donovan’s skill is not limited to offense, he also has the ability to play nearly anywhere on the field. He has experience at second base, third base, shortstop, and both corner outfield spots. This versatility aligns with Seattle’s desire to stay flexible throughout the season.
With one of the best pitching rotations in the MLB, adding a hitter like Donovan could help balance the team by helping out on offense. His ability to put the ball in play provides a much needed depth alongside Seattle’s power hitting lineup.
Win-Win
Williams also noted that the Cardinals’ current direction makes a Donovan trade more realistic.
“Amid the seemingly likely Cardinals fire sale, perhaps the most valuable asset that St. Louis has to sell off this offseason would be Brendan Donovan.” He wrote. “Not only does he have immense positional versatility, but he’s also started to come into his own as a star, particularly in last year’s All-Star campaign. However, I really don’t think there’s much drama at this point as to where Donovan’s heading — it’s just about striking the deal.”
As the Cardinals continue changing up their roster, Donovan’s one of their best trade assets. For Seattle, Donovan would provide an answer to multiple positions while keeping the defensive options more flexible.
A Donovan trade wouldn’t only be about replacing Polanco. The decision would continue with their recent strategic upgrade. With high postseason expectations following their 2025 ALCS appearance, the Mariners seem to be prioritizing adaptability and consistency to add to their already championship-contending roster.
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