The St. Louis Cardinals’ direction at the trade deadline remains uncertain as they hover around a .500 record. Over the next two months, their performance will likely determine whether they decide to compete for a playoff spot or begin a roster overhaul. The team has several veteran players who could be moved to acquire younger talent, but trading away key contributors would also signal a willingness to sacrifice the remainder of this season.
Among the players who could be considered trade candidates is Brendan Donovan. With more than two years left on his current contract and a salary under $3 million, Donovan has become a valuable and affordable asset. He’s currently batting .328 and has a 2.00 WAR, while offering versatility by playing second base, third base, and left field. These qualities make him appealing to playoff contenders looking to strengthen their lineup.
Donovan’s potential availability is influenced by the rise of top prospect JJ Wetherholt. The 22-year-old infielder has been performing well in Double-A, hitting .284 with an .828 OPS. Although not a power hitter, Wetherholt’s defensive flexibility and strong pedigree as a former first-round pick make him a legitimate option to take over a major league role soon.
Wetherholt, primarily a shortstop, is ranked as the No. 20 overall prospect in MLB. With Masyn Winn already established at shortstop in the majors, Wetherholt is expected to shift to second or third base—positions Donovan currently plays. If Wetherholt continues to impress, the Cardinals may consider dealing Donovan for a promising return, especially if it bolsters the team’s long-term future.
Still, the possibility of a Donovan trade while the Cardinals are in contention for the division title is unlikely unless they receive a compelling offer. The organization has some time to make a decision, but as Wetherholt continues to progress, trade discussions involving Donovan could begin to pick up momentum.
