Seattle Mariners fans, prepare to be captivated! An ESPN personality is buzzing about your new infielder, Brendan Donovan, and her prediction is electric: 'You're going to love this guy!'
While the city's sports radar might be locked onto the Seahawks' Super Bowl clash this week, a recent on-air conversation on Seattle Sports' Bump and Stacy pivoted from the gridiron to the baseball diamond. The buzz? The Seattle Mariners' acquisition of former Cardinals infielder, Brendan Donovan.
Michelle Smallmon, a native of the St. Louis area (specifically Belleville, Illinois) and now a voice at the 'big' ESPN, shared her enthusiastic take. Before joining the sports giant, she co-hosted the popular morning show, Karraker & Smallmon, on 101 ESPN St. Louis from May 2020 to September 2022. She knows Donovan's game inside and out.
“Buckle up, because you’re going to love this guy. I think you’re going to love him right away,” Smallmon told the Seattle Sports hosts on Thursday. She continued, painting a picture of what Donovan represents in the Cardinals' storied history. “When I think of St. Louis Cardinals baseball, I think about guys like Brendan Donovan.” She acknowledged that fans often first recall the titans like Albert Pujols, Yadier Molina, Adam Wainwright, and Chris Carpenter when they think of Cardinals stars. But here's where it gets interesting: Smallmon argued that the real secret to the Cardinals' sustained success wasn't just their marquee names.
“The reason the Cardinals were able to be contenders for so long is because of guys like Brendan Donovan,” she emphasized. “A guy who is so sharp and versatile defensively. A guy who is disciplined at the plate. A guy who works on his craft. He is the ultimate team player.”
She even used a word she admitted to disliking, but felt was perfectly fitting: “He’s so gritty – I hate that word, but it really is who he is – and I just think he’s going to fit in with your squad so well and be a great addition.”
Donovan is poised to become a fan favorite in Seattle, and here's why:
Brendan Donovan is essentially a baseball Swiss Army Knife. He's an everyday player capable of manning second or third base with ease, possesses the versatility to cover first base and even some outfield positions, and is built to be a top-of-the-order hitter and table-setter. Crucially, he's among the best in the league at getting on base. Over four seasons with the Cardinals, he's compiled a .282 batting average, hit 40 home runs, driven in 202 runs, and boasts an impressive on-base percentage of .361.
But, as Smallmon highlighted, it's his intangible qualities that truly set the 29-year-old apart. His hustle, unwavering determination, and sheer passion for the game are the kinds of traits that resonate deeply with baseball fans. It's an attitude that feels like it's from another era, and Donovan is now bringing that invaluable spirit to Seattle. Don't be surprised if you see a 'Donnie' jersey popping up in the stands at T-Mobile Park soon!
Smallmon concluded her endorsement with a touch of personal connection: “I was cheering for the Mariners last year. I love your team. I really wanted them to take it home. If he has to go somewhere, I’m glad he’s going to a place where he can contend.”
What do you think, Mariners fans? Does Brendan Donovan's profile excite you? Do you agree that this 'gritty' style of play is what truly fuels championship teams? Let us know in the comments below!
