The New York Yankees are actively exploring various options to strengthen their lineup as they face significant roster gaps heading into the new season. After losing key players from the 2024 lineup—Gleyber Torres (second base), Anthony Rizzo (first base), and Juan Soto (right field)—the Yankees must get creative in reshaping their roster. Given the challenge of filling all these positions through free-agent signings alone, the trade market emerges as a compelling avenue to explore.
One notable name linked to the Yankees is St. Louis Cardinals’ third baseman Nolan Arenado. Despite his reputation as one of the best defensive players in baseball, Arenado’s offensive production has declined in recent years. Entering his age-34 season, his home run totals have dropped consecutively over the past four years, from 34 in 2021 to just 16 this past season. Additionally, his performance at the plate, reflected by a modest 102 wRC+, suggests a decline in his overall hitting impact.
However, Arenado might find rejuvenation in a more potent lineup like the Yankees’, where he would be surrounded by stronger offensive contributors. Still, to make such a trade appealing, the Yankees could negotiate for the inclusion of an additional player—a “sweetener”—to offset Arenado’s hefty contract and declining performance. Brendan Donovan, a versatile utility player for the Cardinals, could be that sweetener.
Donovan is an underrated asset with outstanding defensive flexibility, as evidenced by his 2022 NL Gold Glove win in the utility role. Offensively, the 27-year-old left-handed hitter has a career 119 wRC+, showcasing his ability to draw walks, get on base, and contribute sneaky power. His offensive output could improve further with Yankee Stadium’s hitter-friendly dimensions.
Including Donovan in the deal would make acquiring Arenado far more appealing to the Yankees. Donovan could step in as the team’s second baseman, providing an excellent replacement for Torres, while Arenado could shift to first base—a move he has expressed openness to. This arrangement would address two of the Yankees’ most pressing roster needs in one trade.
Alternatively, if Arenado remains at third base, Donovan could take over at first while another versatile player, like Jazz Chisholm Jr., moves to second base. Securing both Arenado and Donovan would give the Yankees multiple lineup configurations and increase their roster flexibility.
While Arenado alone may not justify a high return due to his age, contract, and recent decline, packaging him with Donovan could create a mutually beneficial deal for both teams. Such a trade would help the Cardinals gain value in return while providing the Yankees with the tools to rebuild their lineup effectively. Ultimately, this approach hinges on what the Yankees are willing to offer, but the inclusion of Donovan significantly enhances the trade’s potential appeal.
