Scouting Report: Brendan McKay

Summary

Brendan Donovan, All-Star third baseman acquired by the Seattle Mariners in the 2026 offseason, has been dealing with recurring groin and hip injuries stemming from offseason sports hernia surgery. He was placed on the 10-day IL in mid-April with a left groin strain after initially missing time in early April. A sliding catch on March 28 that resulted in an awkward hip jam complicated his recovery. Donovan was activated from the IL on May 8 and returned to the lineup at third base and leadoff spot. However, he was subsequently placed back on the IL with the same left groin strain issue. When healthy, Donovan has been one of the Mariners' most consistent hitters, batting .304/.437/.518 with a .954 OPS, 3 HRs, and 3 doubles in 18 games. The recurring nature of the injury and residual effects from surgery present ongoing concerns about his availability and durability for the remainder of the season.