PEORIA, Arizona — When the Seattle Mariners signed Brendan Donovan last winter, they expected to add a stable and versatile batter to their roster. But what’s happening in spring training 2026 may be exceeding expectations: Donovan is becoming one of the hottest names on the team.
In the exhibition game against the Cincinnati Reds, Donovan delivered an explosive performance, hitting four hits, continuing his impressive form during training. This performance not only boosted the Mariners’ morale during preseason preparation but also showed their rookie is quickly proving his worth.
Against the Reds, Donovan was virtually unstoppable. Every time he stepped into the batter’s box, he put immense pressure on Cincinnati’s batters.
Four hits in a spring training game isn’t just a pretty number; it reflects Donovan’s confidence and excellent ball control at the moment. His hits spanned the entire court, showcasing excellent ball control and pitch reading—skills that have become his trademark.
For the Mariners, that’s exactly what they were hoping for when they brought him in: a consistent, disciplined hitter who would always trouble opposing pitchers.
Donovan’s blazing spring
The game against the Reds wasn’t the first time Donovan had made an impact in spring training this year.
From the very first games, he showed very positive form, including an impressive debut with two hits in his first game at spring training camp.
That start quickly turned into a good run of games, and his four-hit performance against the Reds can be considered the peak of his current form.
For the Mariners’ coaching staff, the good news wasn’t just the number of hits. Donovan also demonstrates:
good ball-picking ability
control of the strike zone
consistent hitting in all directions
These are qualities that have made him one of the most consistent hitters on his previous teams.
Donovan arrived in Seattle after the Mariners made a notable trade in the winter. He is a former All-Star and highly regarded for his ability to play in various positions on the court.
The team is expected to use Donovan primarily at third base, but he can be rotated to various on-court or even out-court positions if needed.
That versatility is a huge advantage for the Mariners — especially as the team tries to build a diverse and unpredictable lineup.
But more importantly, the Mariners need someone who can lead the lineup and set the tempo for the offense. Donovan is considered the ideal candidate for this role.
In recent MLB seasons, Donovan has proven that he’s more than just a utility player.
He stands out for his high mid-range hitting, disciplined approach to the plate, low strikeout, and consistent batting.
In his most recent season before arriving in Seattle, Donovan averaged nearly .290, demonstrating he was one of the most consistent hitters on the roster.
Those numbers have led the Mariners to believe he can be a stable frontrunner, creating scoring opportunities for the sluggers behind him.
Spring training isn’t usually the absolute measure of the season. But Donovan’s form is sending a clear message:
He’s ready for a big role in Seattle.
In a highly competitive AL West bracket with the Astros, Rangers, and Angels, the Mariners need every advantage they can. A hitter in top form like Donovan can make a difference—especially if he maintains his consistency throughout the season.
Spring training is still ongoing, and the Mariners will have many more lineup testing games before Opening Day.
However, if Donovan continues to maintain his current form, he could secure the leadoff hitter position, becoming a key offensive player and one of the most exciting players for the Mariners in the 2026 season.
With his 4-hit performance against the Reds, Donovan not only helped the Mariners win a spring training game — he also made Seattle fans start dreaming of an explosive season.
