Two teams designed to win in October are now going after the same player. As the sun sets on another hot trade deadline run-up in July, both the Dodgers and the Yankees are dragged into what could be the next big deal—a utility player that might be the key to the inconsistency both clubs are facing.

It’s not simply the quality of the teams engaged that makes this chase so exciting. In a time where specialization is king, players are put into certain roles. This 28-year-old of the St. Louis Cardinals is someone who can easily switch between positions and still produce at an outstanding level.

The player the Yankees and the Dodgers are chasing is Brendan Donovan. Recently, Ken Rosenthal shared a new update shared by the Yankees Report on their X account. It read, “The Yankees and Dodgers are pursuing Cardinals All-Star Brendan Donovan.” But why him? He is under team control until 2027 due to salary arbitration. His low salary ($2,850,000) compared to elite free agents makes him a valuable asset.

Beyond his contract, his numbers also make him a great choice. Donovan has had one of his best seasons thus far, with a hitting average of about .293, an OPS of .788, nine home runs, 42 RBIs, and a controlled walk-to-strikeout ratio. It shows how good he is at making contact.

And his recent performance in ASG 2025 just added more to his reputation. Donovan went 2-for-3 with two singles. He’s a rising star: effective when it counts, not flashy.

So what makes the Dodgers interested? They are focused on winning as they aim for October success. However, their lineup lacks left-handed hitters besides Michael Conforto, who has been inconsistent. Adding Donovan would provide a solid left-handed bat for second base or the outfield.

The Yankees‘ side of the case is just as strong. Aside from Aaron Judge, the Yankees haven’t had a steady right-handed contact hitter. Injuries or inconsistency at second and third have shown a weakness in the lineup. Donovan’s versatility to play both infield and left field would meet those needs right away.

With the trade deadline just a few days away, the Dodgers and the Yankees are eyeing Brendan Donovan. The Dodgers might trade prospects to make their lineup better, while the Yankees might swing big to make their infield more stable. And what’s the Cardinals’ plan? Well, as per this MLB insider, they’re in no hurry.

St. Louis Cardinals are listening but not selling

Even though there is a lot of talk about trades, the Cardinals aren’t in a hurry to send Brendan Donovan away. While his name is getting a lot of attention from top competitors, St. Louis is still being careful. Katie Woo of The Athletic said, “Donovan is not considered untouchable, and the Cardinals will listen, team sources said. But the asking price is sky-high, and St. Louis is in no rush to part with him, as he still has two years of arbitration remaining.”

That makes sense because Donovan is still having an effect on the field. He hit his ninth home run of the season on Friday night, a line drive to right field that helped the Cardinals beat the Padres 9-7. It wasn’t just a homer; it set the tone and proved once again why he’s more than just a utility player.

The Cardinals are still very much in the NL Wild Card race, even though they have a record of only 54–51. They are only 1.5 games behind. The front office doesn’t feel like they have to make a deal since Donovan is playing a big role and the team is winning.

Woo also said, “The Cardinals will not part with one of their position players unless they are blown away by the offer.” St. Louis Cardinals are paying attention, but there’s no final word out.

Can the Dodgers or the Yankees change their minds? And if they did, who do you think would have him?