Following the understandable disappointment that surrounds the Seattle Mariners’ decision to re-sign Jorge Polanco last offseason, he went on to prove a lot of people wrong. He established a career high with a 134 OPS+, demonstrated his worth with critical hits in the playoffs, and was named an AL Silver Slugger finalist at second base.
Despite, or perhaps because of, this turn of events, Polanco is now likely to play somewhere next season. As expected, he formally declined his 2026 player option, and he is as free as a free agent can be after not receiving a qualifying offer.
If the 2019 All-Star does go, Cole Young is ready to take over at second base and has the potential to excel. However, what if there is another choice available that may be a better fit and, in certain cases, an upgrade over Polanco?
MLB Trade Rumors recently released its list of the top 40 trade candidates for the 2025-26 offseason, and while most names aren’t shocking, one intriguing inclusion is St. Louis Cardinals utilityman Brendan Donovan. Writer Steve Adams notes that Donovan could be a strong fit for several contenders — including the Detroit Tigers, New York Yankees, Houston Astros, Kansas City Royals, and the Seattle Mariners.
For Seattle, the appeal is clear. Donovan is a consistent on-base threat known for his contact skills, something the Mariners have sorely lacked. His Baseball Savant metrics back that up — he ranks in the 96th percentile in Squared-Up%, 95th in Whiff%, and 94th in both LA Sweet-Spot% and expected batting average (xBA).
Adding a player like Donovan could address one of the Mariners’ biggest offensive weaknesses from last season: finding a reliable leadoff hitter. He would also contribute to their ongoing push to cut down on strikeouts, as Seattle still finished 2025 with the sixth-most in MLB — just a year removed from leading the majors in that category.
Mariners can still have their cake and eat it
For those hoping to see Young get a legitimate chance at second base, adding a proven veteran wouldn’t necessarily push him out of the lineup. Donovan’s versatility makes him a valuable asset — he has extensive experience in the outfield and has also logged time at all the other infield positions.
Moreover, while Mariners ownership appears ready to open the checkbook this offseason, Donovan represents an affordable option. He’s projected to earn $5.4 million next year and remains under team control through 2027 via arbitration.
Although Seattle would face competition from other interested clubs, their strong farm system gives them the leverage to present an appealing trade package to St. Louis. Altogether, pursuing Donovan would be a smart move for Jerry Dipoto and the Mariners as they continue their push toward capturing an AL Pennant and making a long-awaited World Series appearance.