Mets Eye Brendan Donovan to Strengthen Lineup After Semien Trade

The New York Mets are entering a pivotal phase in roster construction after trading Brandon Nimmo to secure Marcus Semien. The move rebalanced their infield but left pressing questions regarding starting rotation depth and outfield reinforcement. Addressing these gaps is crucial as the team seeks to remain competitive in a strong National League East.

One potential solution lies with St. Louis Cardinals second baseman Brendan Donovan, a 28-year-old All-Star whose combination of offensive production and defensive versatility makes him an appealing target. Donovan’s track record includes a .287 batting average, 10 home runs, 50 RBIs, and a .353 on-base percentage in 460 at-bats during the 2025 season, highlighting both consistency and high-floor performance.

Donovan’s ability to play multiple positions—primarily second base and left field—aligns with the Mets’ need for flexibility, especially given their pursuit of rotation stability and outfield depth after Cedric Mullins’ departure. With two years of team control remaining, he represents a timely acquisition that could contribute immediately while fitting into the franchise’s long-term championship window.

Meanwhile, the Cardinals are in rebuilding mode, having already traded Sonny Gray and signaling openness to moving Donovan to create development space for top prospect JJ Wetherholt. The potential trade would satisfy both organizations’ priorities: veteran production for the Mets and roster flexibility plus prospect assets for St. Louis.

1. Brendan Donovan’s Profile and Fit

Donovan’s 2025 season reinforced his status as a dual-threat player capable of impacting both sides of the ball. He maintained Gold Glove-caliber defense while excelling in multiple positions, including second base and left field, providing teams with strategic lineup options. His career on-base percentage of .361 and emerging power make him a valuable offensive asset. For the Mets, Donovan offers a left-handed bat who can slot into critical lineup spots, complementing the team’s existing core of Juan Soto, Marcus Semien, and Pete Alonso upon his eventual return. Age and contract control also enhance Donovan’s appeal. At 28, he is in his prime, with two years remaining under team control, making him an ideal balance between immediate contribution and medium-term roster planning. St. Louis’ willingness to trade Donovan stems from their need to provide everyday playing time to Wetherholt while accumulating high-quality prospects. This scenario positions Donovan as a player who can both help the Mets compete now and provide the Cardinals with long-term value.

2. Proposed Trade Package

The Mets’ hypothetical trade package for Donovan includes outfielder Carson Benge, right-handed pitcher Brandon Sproat, and third baseman Ronny Mauricio. This trio of prospects addresses the Cardinals’ rebuilding goals by providing immediate-impact talent. Benge represents an elite outfield prospect capable of becoming an everyday contributor, while Sproat offers potential as a top-of-the-rotation starter. Mauricio brings a blend of speed and power that projects well at multiple positions, rounding out a package designed to accelerate St. Louis’ youth movement. The combination ensures that the Cardinals acquire tangible, long-term assets rather than temporary rentals, aligning with their roster-clearing objectives. Donovan’s departure would also create the positional flexibility needed to integrate Wetherholt into the lineup. For the Mets, the trade would add a versatile, All-Star caliber veteran capable of playing left field, second base, or utility roles, strengthening a roster already featuring elite talent while retaining key rotation prospects.

3. Strategic Benefits for Both Teams

Acquiring Donovan signals the Mets’ commitment to immediate contention while maintaining roster flexibility for developing prospects. His proven offensive production and defensive adaptability make him a high-value addition capable of complementing the team’s current core. For the Cardinals, the trade accelerates a rebuild by converting an elite veteran into three highly regarded prospects, allowing the organization to focus on long-term player development and positional depth. The exchange represents balanced value: the Mets gain a versatile veteran, and St. Louis acquires multiple future contributors. Both teams align their short-term and long-term objectives, ensuring competitiveness and sustainability. As the Mets navigate a critical offseason, adding Donovan could serve as a defining move, underscoring their commitment to contending in 2026 and beyond.