Brendan Donovan hits leadoff HR in Seattle Mariners debut

Donovan's first at-bat with the Mariners results in a historic home run.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 2:49am

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In his first game with the Seattle Mariners, infielder Brendan Donovan hit a leadoff home run in the bottom of the first inning, making it the first time in franchise history that a Mariners player has accomplished this feat on opening day.

Why it matters

Donovan's leadoff homer is a promising start to his tenure with the Mariners, who acquired him in a trade with the St. Louis Cardinals in the offseason. As a first-time All-Star and Gold Glove winner last season, Donovan's performance will be closely watched as the Mariners look to build on their success from 2025.

The details

Facing Guardians right-hander Tanner Bibee, Donovan turned on a 3-1 fastball and pulled it 353 feet into the right-field seats at T-Mobile Park. The home run came in Donovan's very first at-bat as a Mariner.

  • Donovan's leadoff home run occurred in the bottom of the first inning of the Mariners' 2026 season opener on Thursday, March 27.

The players

Brendan Donovan

A 25-year-old infielder who the Mariners acquired from the St. Louis Cardinals in a trade during the offseason. Donovan was a first-time All-Star and Gold Glove winner with the Cardinals in 2022.

Tanner Bibee

The Guardians right-handed pitcher who gave up Donovan's leadoff home run in the bottom of the first inning.

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What they’re saying

“Donovan began his Seattle Mariners career in style.”

— Cameron Van Til, Author

What’s next

The Mariners will look to build on Donovan's strong debut as they continue their 2026 season opener against the Guardians.

The takeaway

Brendan Donovan's leadoff home run in his first at-bat as a Mariner is an exciting start to his tenure in Seattle, and a promising sign for the team as they aim to build on their success from the previous season.