Former South Alabama baseball star Brendan Donovan is adjusting to life after being traded to the Seattle Mariners. Just a week after his baseball life took a turn, Donovan was back at South Alabama's First Pitch banquet, where he shared his thoughts on the trade and his journey. Donovan, a four-year MLB veteran, was traded from the St. Louis Cardinals to the Mariners, marking a significant change in his career. The event, held just five days after the trade, featured Donovan as a featured speaker alongside former Jaguars coach Steve Kittrell and MLB alums Lance Johnson and Marlon Anderson. Donovan expressed his excitement about the opportunity, highlighting his versatility and eagerness to be in the lineup. He emphasized the importance of being a leader and a versatile player, qualities that he believes will benefit the Mariners. Donovan's journey began at Enterprise High School, where he starred for coach Mark Calvi at South Alabama from 2016-18. He was a standout player, earning the Most Valuable Player award in the 2017 Sun Belt Conference tournament and a second-team all-conference pick in 2018. The Cardinals drafted Donovan in the eighth round of the 2018 MLB draft, and he made his big-league debut in 2022. He had a successful rookie season, finishing third in the Rookie of the Year balloting and winning a Gold Glove. However, with the Cardinals embarking on a rebuild, Donovan was traded as part of a three-team deal. Donovan's career highlights include a two-run home run in the first inning of an MLB game at Rickwood Field in Birmingham. He is a career .282/.361/.411 hitter with 97 doubles, 40 home runs, and 202 RBIs in 492 games. Donovan expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and his loyalty to South Alabama, stating that the program made his college baseball dream come true. He also praised coach Calvi for his support and guidance throughout his career. As Donovan embarks on a new chapter with the Mariners, he brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the team. His journey from a lightly recruited player to an All-Star showcases his hard work and determination. Donovan's success is a testament to his self-made nature and his ability to adapt and thrive in different situations. With his versatility and leadership, Donovan is poised to make a significant impact on the Mariners' team dynamic.
