With Ketel Marte likely off the trade block, the Cardinals gain a crucial edge as rival teams zero in on Brendan Donovan.

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The MLB offseason continues to turn up the heat, and two names have been at the center of trade talks for weeks: Brendan Donovan and Ketel Marte. But as we close out the year, it looks like one of those names might be coming off the board.

Arizona Diamondbacks GM Mike Hazen made it clear this week that the team is likely stepping away from the idea of trading Marte. Speaking candidly, Hazen said, “We’re very likely to put an end to this shortly… My gut this whole time was that a trade wasn’t going to happen, and I think it seems likely that that’s the case…” That’s about as definitive as it gets in the middle of trade season.

And that decision – to keep Marte in Arizona – could have ripple effects all across the league, especially for teams still hunting for infield help. With Marte likely staying put, all eyes shift to St. Louis, where the Cardinals suddenly find themselves in a position of power with Brendan Donovan.

Donovan, a versatile left-handed bat who can play all over the diamond, has drawn serious interest this winter. Now, with Marte off the table, Donovan becomes the top-tier second baseman available via trade – and that puts the Cardinals in the driver’s seat, especially with teams like the Red Sox and Mariners still very much in the mix.

Let’s start with Seattle. The Mariners have been hesitant to move pieces from their Major League roster, which reportedly stalled talks with Arizona.

But they’ve shown more willingness when it comes to Donovan, even dangling one of their most electric young arms to get a deal done. That kind of flexibility signals just how much they value Donovan’s fit – and how serious they are about making a move.

Boston, on the other hand, is weighing multiple options. They’ve been linked to Alex Bregman, but that move would come with a hefty price tag and a long-term commitment.

Donovan, by contrast, offers a cost-controlled solution to their infield needs. And with a deep farm system and a surplus of young outfielders, the Red Sox could swing a deal for Donovan without mortgaging their future.

Multiple reports have confirmed Boston is very much in the mix, and the fit makes a lot of sense.

Of course, the Cardinals are in no rush. With the market tightening and Donovan’s value rising, they have the luxury of waiting for the right offer. And with Marte likely off the board, the leverage is only shifting further in their favor.

As we head into January, the trade market is narrowing – and the Cardinals are holding the cards. Whether it’s Seattle, Boston, or a surprise suitor that steps up, Brendan Donovan is now the name to watch.