Why Brendan Donovan is the Perfect “Plan B” for the Yankees

The Yankees are "At an Impasse" with Cody Bellinger as we begin the new week, and are looking to their "Plan B". They have done virtually nothing this offseason, and that is due to waiting on Bellinger to sign.

The Yankees won't be moving heaven and earth to bring Bellinger back, and that begins now. One avenue the Yankees to peruse is a trade with the St. Louis Cardinals. Earlier this offseason, the Yankees and Cardinals had conversations surrounding a multitude of players, one being Brendan Donovan.

About Donovan

Donovan has established himself as one of the most reliable and versatile assets for the Cardinals since his debut in 2022. A left-handed batter with a disciplined eye, Donovan is best known for his elite bat-to-ball skills and high on-base percentage, rarely striking out compared to the modern league average.

His defensive flexibility is equally impressive; he made history in his rookie season by becoming the first-ever National League Gold Glove winner for a utility player, having logged significant innings at six different positions, including all four infield spots and both corner outfield positions.

In the 2025 season, Donovan continued his trajectory as a core contributor, earning his first career All-Star selection. Despite missing some time due to a sports hernia that required postseason surgery, he finished the year with a strong .287 batting average and a 119 wRC+, signifying he was 19% better than the league-average hitter.

His ability to lead off or hit anywhere in the top of the order makes him a Swiss Army Knife for a Cardinals roster that has increasingly relied on his steady production and defensive stability across the diamond.

Something the Yankees have struggled with in recent seasons is finding a consistent leadoff hitter, and Donovan would solve some of those concerns.

Donovan's Fit in New York

The Yankees have liked Donovan for years, and that has not stopped yet. Analysts suggest that his hitting style would benefit from the "short porch" in right field at Yankee Stadium, where his pulled fly balls could lead to an increase in home run production.

Defensively, the Yankees have viewed him as a solution for their infield versatility, particularly at second or third base, while providing a contact-oriented presence that balances their power-heavy lineup.

Donovan's Offensive Breakdown compared to NY:

Based on the numbers, Donovan would thrive at Yankee Stadium. With two years of control, it would allow him to move all around the field. He has experience in left field in his career, which is where he would fit defensively once Anthony Volpereturns from injury. Prior to that, Donovan could slot in at short stop, allowing for Jasson Dominguez to play in the outfield. If the Yankees allow Jazz Chisholm Jr. walk in free agency, it opens up a vacancy at second base in his walk year.

Donovan's Defensive Breakdown:

The Yankees should look to make the deal for Donovan, regardless of the coast and jumpstart their offseason.