Mariners Fans Buzzing Over Versatile Newcomer Brendan Donovan

Donovan's strong spring training performance and praise from teammates have Seattle excited for his potential impact in 2026.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Brendan Donovan, a recent acquisition from the St. Louis Cardinals, has generated significant buzz among Mariners players and fans during spring training. Known for his versatility, work ethic, and all-around skills, Donovan is expected to address the team's offensive needs, particularly in the leadoff position. Teammates like Andrew Knizner and Cal Raleigh have praised Donovan's commitment and ability to complement the Mariners' lineup, fueling optimism about his potential to contribute to the team's success in the upcoming 2026 season.

Why it matters

The Mariners are coming off a 116-win season and a near World Series appearance, and the addition of a versatile player like Donovan could be critical in maintaining their offensive balance and depth as they look to build on last year's momentum. Donovan's reputation as a dependable utility player and an All-Star has generated significant excitement among Mariners fans, who are eager to see how he can impact the team's quest for its first World Series appearance.

The details

Donovan officially joined the Mariners' spring training on Wednesday, immediately drawing praise from his new teammates. Andrew Knizner, a fellow new addition to the team, described Donovan as a player with 'unmatched work ethic' and a 'commitment to preparation' that is 'one of the best' he's seen. Cal Raleigh, the Mariners' American League MVP runner-up last season, expressed optimism about Donovan's fit within the team, saying he 'complements our lineup really well' and is 'what we needed to add to this team'.

  • Donovan officially joined the Mariners' spring training on Wednesday (February 11, 2026).

The players

Brendan Donovan

A versatile utility player recently acquired by the Seattle Mariners from the St. Louis Cardinals, known for his strong all-around skills, work ethic, and potential to address the team's offensive needs.

Andrew Knizner

A new addition to the Mariners, who praised Donovan's unmatched work ethic and commitment to preparation.

Cal Raleigh

The Mariners' American League MVP runner-up last season, who expressed optimism about Donovan's fit within the team's lineup.

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What they’re saying

“Donovan's a guy that has unmatched work ethic. His commitment to preparation is one of the best I've seen. It's a guy that just puts his head down and just goes after it day in and day out. I think that's something that the Mariners fans and obviously the guys on the team will really respect and love about him is just he's a grinder.”

— Andrew Knizner (theconwaybulletin.com)

“I think he complements our lineup really well. He's what we needed to add to this team — that type of player. And obviously sad seeing some of the other guys walk out, but knowing what we needed and having to add and making our lineup deeper with different types of hitters, that's a big add.”

— Cal Raleigh (theconwaybulletin.com)

“I just try to play like my hair is on fire.”

— Brendan Donovan (theconwaybulletin.com)

What’s next

As spring training progresses and the 2026 season approaches, Mariners fans will closely watch Donovan's integration and impact on the team. If he lives up to the positive reports from his new teammates, he could become a key figure in Seattle's quest for its first World Series appearance.

The takeaway

The addition of versatile player Brendan Donovan to the Mariners' roster has generated significant excitement among the team and its fans, who see him as a potential catalyst for the team's continued success in the 2026 season. Donovan's strong work ethic, complementary skills, and ability to contribute in multiple positions make him an intriguing piece as the Mariners look to build on their impressive 2025 campaign.