Pittsburgh Pirates Target Brendan Donovan in Major Offseason Trade Pursuit

The Pittsburgh Pirates are aggressively pursuing a trade for St. Louis Cardinals All-Star Brendan Donovan. This move aims to solve their chronic offensive struggles. The team has missed on several key free agents this winter.

According to reports from The Athletic, the Cardinals are listening to offers. Donovan, a versatile left-handed bat, represents a perfect fit for the Pirates’ needs. His consistent on-base skills and defensive flexibility are highly valued.

Why Donovan is the Ideal Solution for Pittsburgh’s Lineup

The Pirates’ offense was the worst in baseball last season. They ranked last in slugging percentage, OPS, and home runs. Adding a proven hitter is their top priority.

Brendan Donovan brings exactly what Pittsburgh lacks. He is a career .282 hitter with a strong .358 on-base percentage. His approach is contact-oriented and he rarely strikes out.

Donovan’s 2025 All-Star season showcased his value. He posted a .287 average and a .775 OPS. He provides the reliable, everyday bat the lineup desperately needs.

His defensive versatility is a huge bonus. Donovan won a Gold Glove as a utility player in 2022. He can play both corner outfield spots and all four infield positions seamlessly.

This allows the Pirates to plug him into multiple holes. He could start daily in left field or at third base. His flexibility helps the team manage other roster weaknesses.

The Cost and Feasibility of a Blockbuster Trade

Acquiring Donovan will not be cheap. The Cardinals are known to have a high asking price. Reports indicate they would need to be “blown away” to part with him.

St. Louis would likely demand top prospects in return. The Pirates have a deep farm system, especially in young pitching. A deal would probably center around those valuable arms.

Pittsburgh must decide if three years of team control on Donovan is worth it. They have failed to land power hitters in free agency. The trade market may be their only path to a significant upgrade.

Donovan fits the profile of players the Pirates have targeted. They have shown interest in other left-handed, versatile bats like Alec Burleson and Brandon Lowe. Donovan is arguably the best and most consistent of that group.

This pursuit signals a genuine attempt to compete. The front office is under pressure to improve the product. A trade for a player of Donovan’s caliber would send a strong message to fans.

The potential trade for Brendan Donovan represents a critical crossroads for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Securing his consistent bat could transform their lineup and finally address a years-long offensive drought.

Thought you’d like to know

What would the Pirates have to give up for Brendan Donovan?

The Cardinals would demand a significant package. It would likely include multiple top prospects, possibly focusing on the Pirates’ wealth of young starting pitching talent. The cost is expected to be high.

Where would Brendan Donovan play for the Pirates?

He would most likely be the everyday left fielder or third baseman. His elite versatility allows him to play almost anywhere, giving the manager multiple options to improve the lineup daily.

How long is Brendan Donovan under team control?

Donovan is not a free agent until after the 2028 season. Any team that trades for him would control his rights for three full seasons, adding to his substantial trade value.

Why are the Pirates focusing on left-handed hitters?

PNC Park is notoriously friendly to left-handed batters. The right-field wall is much closer, making it easier for lefties to hit home runs. The team wants to leverage this park advantage.

Have the Pirates tried to get similar players?

Yes. Reports have linked them to several left-handed, versatile hitters this offseason. This includes the Cardinals’ Alec Burleson and the Rays’ Brandon Lowe, showing a clear pattern in their search.