A surprising offseason twist places the Guardians in the mix for an All-Star utilityman who could reshape their lineup.NL
The Cleveland Guardians are on the hunt for offensive firepower this offseason, and they’re not limiting their search to just one avenue. Whether it’s through free agency or the trade market, the front office is clearly looking to boost a lineup that could use some veteran punch. That’s where Brendan Donovan comes into the picture – and he’s not flying under the radar.
Donovan, the St. Louis Cardinals’ Swiss Army knife of a player, is drawing attention across the league, and Cleveland is among the teams keeping close tabs on his availability.
According to reports, the Guardians join the Astros and Yankees in expressing interest in the 28-year-old, who’s under team control for two more seasons and due for a bump in arbitration this winter. That kind of contract flexibility only adds to his appeal.
Now, let’s talk fit – because Donovan checks a lot of boxes for Cleveland.
First, the bat. Donovan’s offensive production has been quietly consistent and, frankly, underrated.
He’s posted double-digit home run totals in each of the last three seasons, topping out at a career-high 14 in 2024. And it’s not just the long ball – over the past two years, he’s racked up 66 doubles, including 32 this past season alone.
That’s the kind of gap power that plays well in Progressive Field and offers a much-needed boost to a Guardians lineup that often leans on contact hitters rather than sluggers.
But Donovan isn’t just a bat-first guy. His plate discipline is a big part of his value.
He posted a 13.4% whiff rate and a 13% strikeout rate in 2025 – both well below league average – and his career walk rate sits at a solid 9.1%. That’s the kind of approach that fits right in with Cleveland’s offensive identity: grind out at-bats, put the ball in play, and force the defense to make plays.
Defensively, Donovan brings even more to the table. He’s the definition of versatile – a former Gold Glove winner at the utility spot (2022), and someone who has played every position on the diamond except catcher, center field, and pitcher. While the Cardinals have primarily used him at second base and in left field, his flexibility gives Cleveland options all over the field.
And that’s especially important right now. With top prospect Travis Bazzana still developing in the minors, Donovan could step in as an everyday second baseman in the short term. At the same time, he’d add depth to the Guardians’ outfield rotation, which has been a revolving door in recent years.
In short, Donovan is the kind of player who makes a roster better in multiple ways – and not just on paper. He’s a plug-and-play guy who gives the Guardians lineup versatility, balance, and a more complete offensive profile. If Cleveland is serious about contending in 2025 and beyond, this is exactly the kind of move that could help bridge the gap between young potential and proven production.
