Brendan Donovan on the Eyes of the New York Yankees

Brendan Donovan on the Eyes of the New York Yankees originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

The July 31 MLB trade deadline is dominating baseball conversations, with teams across the majors locking in their plans. Some are clear buyers, others are sellers, and many sit in the middle trying to decide what’s best for their future.

One of those teams is the St. Louis Cardinals. They’re in fourth place in the National League Central, nine games behind the Milwaukee Brewers. But the Cardinals are just 2.5 games back of the San Diego Padres for the final wild card spot. St. Louis and San Diego will face off six times over the next 10 days, a stretch that could play a large role in both teams' directions.

A key name being mentioned in trade rumors is Cardinals infielder and lone All-Star Brendan Donovan. Several teams would be interested in acquiring him, including the New York Yankees.

MLB insider Jon Heyman recently reported the Yankees' interest in Donovan if he were made available: "All-Star INF Brendan Donovan would interest the Yankees, if he’s available. Many teams would be. Astros, too. Unclear how deep Cardinals sale will be."

All-Star INF Brendan Donovan would interest the Yankees, if he’s available. Many teams would be. Astros, too. Unclear how deep Cardinals sale will be.

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) July 25, 2025

While it’s unclear how open St. Louis is to moving Donovan, many around the league believe even the Cardinals aren’t sure yet. They also have other potential trade pieces, including third baseman Nolan Arenado and pitchers Ryan Helsley, Phil Maton and Steven Matz.

Donovan is having a standout season. He ranks second in the National League in batting average, hitting .296 with nine home runs and 42 RBIs. He had a big night on Thursday, collecting three hits including a home run in the Cardinals' 9-7 win over the Padres. Over his last four games, he’s 7-for-17.

The 28-year-old made his MLB debut with St. Louis in 2022 and won a Gold Glove that same year. In 2023, he represented Germany in the World Baseball Classic, having been born in Würzburg.

St. Louis faces a critical stretch with the current home series against the Padres and then the Miami Marlins, followed by a road trip to San Diego and then a visit to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

For the Yankees, Donovan would add versatility to their lineup. Oswald Peraza is currently getting regular time at third base, while Jazz Chisholm handles second. Donovan hasn’t played third this season, but has in the past. This year, he’s started 78 games at second base, six at shortstop and 18 in left field.

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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 25, 2025, where it first appeared.