Donovan Brings Versatility, Preparation to Mariners

New Mariners infielder Brendan Donovan arrives in Arizona early to acclimate with his new teammates.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Brendan Donovan, recently acquired by the Seattle Mariners, is already making an impression with his new team. The 25-year-old infielder is known for his versatility, elite bat-to-ball skills, and tireless work ethic. Donovan, who was traded from the St. Louis Cardinals, is eager to contribute to the Mariners' lineup and defense, and has been praised by his new teammates for his makeup and preparation.

Why it matters

Donovan's addition to the Mariners' roster provides the team with more defensive flexibility and contact at the plate, complementing their lineup after the departures of power hitters Eugenio Suárez and Jorge Polanco. His strong on-base skills and low strikeout rate make him a prime candidate to lead off for the Mariners.

The details

Donovan, who grew up as a military brat, has instilled values of preparation and hard work that have contributed to his success in the major leagues. He is known for his ability to play multiple positions and his dislike of striking out. Donovan has also studied the classic hitting instructional book "The Science of Hitting" by Ted Williams, further demonstrating his dedication to the craft.

  • Donovan was traded to the Mariners last Monday as part of a three-team deal.
  • Donovan arrived in Arizona early to acclimate with his new teammates.

The players

Brendan Donovan

A 25-year-old infielder who was recently traded from the St. Louis Cardinals to the Seattle Mariners, known for his versatility, elite bat-to-ball skills, and tireless work ethic.

Cal Raleigh

A Mariners catcher who has praised Donovan's makeup and believes he will complement the team's lineup well.

Jim Donovan

Brendan Donovan's father, a retired colonel in the Army Aviation, who instilled values of preparation and hard work in his son.

Perry Hill

The Mariners' infield coach, who has been on Donovan's radar since his days at the University of South Alabama and is known for his expertise in fielding fundamentals.

Ted Williams

A Hall of Fame baseball player and the co-author of the classic instructional book "The Science of Hitting", which Donovan studied at a young age.

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What they’re saying

“The thing about me is I believe in preparation. I try to be the most prepared player on the field. I think that may come with just kind of being able to play kind of all over the field.”

— Brendan Donovan (mlb.com)

“I think the one thing the organization does really well is they do a good job, for the most part, with their homework and getting good people. Obviously, we want good players and stuff like that, but trying to combine that with good people -- people who work hard, do the right things. That's what you've seen a lot of with these guys here already, and it kind of seems like we added to that.”

— Cal Raleigh, Mariners catcher (mlb.com)

“I also hate striking out.”

— Brendan Donovan (mlb.com)

What’s next

As spring training progresses, the focus will be on where Donovan's glove will play the most, with the Mariners likely to give him the most reps at third base.

The takeaway

Donovan's addition to the Mariners' roster brings a versatile, contact-oriented player who complements the team's lineup well. His strong work ethic and preparation, instilled from a young age, are expected to make him a valuable asset as the Mariners aim to build on their success from the previous season.