MLB Rumors: Yankees Showing Interest In Cardinals' Key Player
With DJ LeMahieu and Oswaldo Cabrera expected to handle third base, and Jazz Chisholm Jr. possibly shifting positions, the Yankees are exploring outside options.
Donovan has emerged as a prime target due to his left-handed bat, strong base-running ability, and defensive versatility. "His ability to put the ball in play and limit strikeouts makes him a natural fit at the top of the Yankees’ lineup," one report noted.
His Gold Glove-caliber defense at multiple positions would provide much-needed stability after the Yankees’ infield inconsistencies last season.
Brendan Donovan’s 2024 September:
— Teddy Wynard (@tjwynard) February 12, 2025
.360 AVG
.420 OBP
.551 SLG
.971 OPS
3 HR
12 RBI
Very under the radar player who can take a big jump in 2025.pic.twitter.com/JAN41NfOHD
Despite the Yankees’ interest, the Cardinals have shown no willingness to move Donovan. The 28-year-old remains under team control through 2028, and St. Louis has already turned down trade inquiries from multiple teams, including the Seattle Mariners.
Even after failing to agree on a multi-year extension before arbitration, Donovan is viewed as a key part of the Cardinals’ future. "He’s become a vital part of this ball club, and there’s virtually no chance Donovan will be traded soon," one source said.
Given the Yankees' limited trade assets following the Juan Soto deal, meeting the Cardinals’ likely high asking price could prove difficult.
Cardinals going to arbitration over:
— Cardinals Talk (@theredbird_way) February 12, 2025
175k for Andre Pallante
450k for Brendan Donovan
500k for Lars Nootbaar
We are a joke. pic.twitter.com/yaAmIELZ4V
While the Yankees are expected to start the season with their current infield options, Donovan remains a name to watch if St. Louis reconsiders its stance.
If the Cardinals struggle early, they may be more open to moving him for young pitching, which remains a need for their roster.
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