The Boston Red Sox have zeroed in on a veteran infielder as their priority option for a second offensive addition this offseason, with St. Louis Cardinals infielder Brendan Donovan emerging as a central focus of the club’s plans.
According to reports, chief baseball officer Craig Breslow has identified Donovan as a strong fit as Boston continues reshaping its roster for the 2026 season. After completing a flurry of trades earlier in the offseason, the Red Sox remain active in discussions and appear committed to adding another reliable bat—particularly one who can address needs in the infield.
Donovan checks several boxes for Boston. The 28-year-old left-handed hitter brings versatility, strong on-base skills, and a team-friendly contract. He is projected to earn $5.75 million in 2026 and remains under club control through the 2027 season, making him an attractive option for a team balancing competitiveness with long-term flexibility.
On the field, Donovan delivered a productive 2025 campaign, batting .287 with 32 doubles, 10 home runs, and 50 RBIs in 118 games. He finished with an OPS+ of 118 and 2.7 WAR, thriving as a contact-oriented hitter who limits strikeouts, draws walks, and consistently squares up the baseball—traits that project well at Fenway Park. Defensively, he also offers above-average reliability compared to Boston’s recent options at second base.
While a deal has not yet been finalized, Donovan’s profile aligns closely with what the Red Sox are seeking as a second offseason bat. With Breslow continuing to push aggressively on the trade market, Boston appears positioned to make another meaningful move as it builds toward a competitive 2026 season in the AL East.
