Brendan Donovan Traded to Mariners in Three-Team Deal

The Seattle Mariners, St. Louis Cardinals, and Tampa Bay Rays agreed to a three-team trade on February 2, 2026, centered around utilityman Brendan Donovan. Five players and two compensatory draft picks moved in the swap. Browse Mariners, Cardinals, and Rays players on AthX

Trade Breakdown

Why the Mariners Wanted Donovan

The 29-year-old Donovan is a strong fit for Seattle. In four big-league seasons he has yet to produce an OPS+ below 114. Last year's 90-win Mariners had just four players clear that mark in 300+ plate appearances. Donovan's game is built on discipline and contact—he connects on more than 90% of in-zone swings—and he's comfortable working deep counts. Defensively, Donovan has ample experience at second base, left field, and elsewhere. The Mariners shed third-base options this winter (Williamson in this deal, Eugenio Suárez via free agency), so Donovan could slot at third or fill a utility role. He's under team control through 2027.

What the Cardinals Got

Cijntje, 22, was the 15th pick in the 2024 draft and ranks among the top 50 prospects. A switch-pitcher who's better from the right side, he reached Double-A in his first full pro season. Peete, 20, was the 30th pick in 2023—a lefty outfielder with power-speed upside but a 33% whiff rate. Ledbetter, 24, spent 2025 in Double-A. The two compensatory picks should land around Nos. 68 and 72 in the 2026 draft.

AthX Impact

Donovan's move to Seattle could boost his fantasy value. T-Mobile Park is tough on left-handed power, but his contact-driven approach should translate. Williamson becomes a Rays asset; Cijntje and Peete add upside for the Cardinals' farm.

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