As the 2025 MLB offseason heats up, St. Louis Cardinals’ All-Star utility man Brendan Donovan has emerged as a prime trade target, with the Kansas City Royals and Cleveland Guardians among the teams vying for his services. Donovan’s versatility, contact-hitting prowess, and two years of club control make him an attractive option for clubs looking to bolster their lineups.
The Royals, coming off an 82-80 season, are desperate to upgrade an outfield that posted a league-worst 73 wRC+ in 2025. Royals president of baseball operations J.J. Picollo emphasized the need for a player who can split time between the infield and outfield, a role Donovan fits perfectly. Kansas City’s second base production was also lackluster, with Jonathan India and Michael Massey combining for subpar offensive numbers. Donovan, with a career .282/.361/.411 slash line and 119 wRC+, could slot in at second base or an outfield corner, providing an immediate offensive boost. With a tight payroll, trading for Donovan’s modest projected salary makes more sense than chasing high-priced free agents.
The Guardians, fresh off an AL Central title, also have their sights set on Donovan to address their offensive woes. Cleveland’s outfield ranked second-to-last in wRC+ (77), and second base was a weak spot, with Brayan Rocchio and Daniel Schneemann failing to impress. Donovan’s ability to play multiple positions aligns with Cleveland’s love for versatile, contact-oriented hitters. However, the Guardians’ surplus of left-handed hitters and the emergence of top prospect Travis Bazzana at second base could complicate their pursuit unless they clear infield depth in a separate deal. Cleveland’s pitching depth, though thinner than usual, could be leveraged to sweeten an offer.
Beyond Kansas City and Cleveland, the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers have shown prior interest in Donovan, though their needs may have shifted since July. The Yankees’ acquisition of Ryan McMahon and the Dodgers’ outfield prospect pipeline might reduce their urgency, but Donovan’s flexibility keeps them in the conversation. The Los Angeles Angels, with glaring holes at second and third base and a strikeout-heavy lineup, could view Donovan as an ideal fit, though their thin farm system may hinder their ability to compete in a bidding war. The Oakland A’s, despite budget constraints, could see Donovan as a short-term solution at second or third, but their focus on future assets for their Las Vegas move might limit their aggression.
Donovan, 29 in January, brings a strong track record: a 9.1% walk rate, 13.5% strikeout rate, and experience at all infield positions and both outfield corners. His Gold Glove and All-Star credentials only add to his value. For the Cardinals, trading Donovan could net a quality starting pitcher to address their rotation’s 2025 struggles, especially with top prospect JJ Wetherholt nearing the majors.
