New York Yankees find a solution to Anthony Volpe's and Jazz Chisholm's injuries

The New York Yankees’ infield depth is being tested like never before. In a brutal seven-day span, the team lost shortstop Anthony Volpe (left shoulder injury) and second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. (right oblique tear), sidelining both stars for over a month. With their AL East lead shrinking to just two games, the Bronx Bombers are scrambling to stabilize their lineup—and an unlikely trade target has emerged as the fanbase’s top pick to fill the void.

Why Brendan Donovan is the New York Yankees’ ideal midseason fix

Volpe’s abrupt exit during Saturday’s game against the Rays—followed by Jazz Chisholm’s oblique diagnosis—leaves the Yankees relying on Pablo Reyes and Oswald Peraza to anchor the middle infield. While both have shown flashes of competence, their limited offensive ceilings and defensive inconsistencies pose risks for a team eyeing a World Series run. With Jorbit Vivas as the lone bench option, New York’s front office faces pressure to act swiftly.

Donovan: The Swiss Army Knife

Enter Brendan Donovan, the St. Louis Cardinals’ versatile 28-year-old infielder. A social media favorite among New York Yankees fans, Donovan is batting an impressive .333 with three homers in 2025, building on a solid .278 average as a full-time starter last season. His ability to play second base, third base, and corner outfield spots offers manager Aaron Boone flexibility to rotate players based on matchups and hot streaks.

Why the Cardinals might deal him

St. Louis, languishing in fourth place in the NL Central, is poised to sell veterans for prospects. Donovan’s contract (under team control until 2028) and positional adaptability make him a prime trade chip. For the Yankees, acquiring him wouldn’t require gutting their farm system, as the Cardinals’ urgency to rebuild could lower the asking price.

Strategic fit in the Bronx

Donovan’s left-handed bat balances a New York Yankees lineup heavy on righties, while his on-base skills (.385 OBP in 2025) align with the team’s emphasis on grinding at-bats. Defensively, he’d slot in seamlessly at second base initially, allowing Peraza to focus on shortstop. When Jazz Chisholm returns, Donovan’s ability to shift to third base or the outfield ensures long-term utility.

Urgency in the AL East race

With the Orioles and Red Sox lurking just two games back, the Yankees can’t afford to wait. Donovan’s immediate impact could preserve their division lead and provide insurance against further injuries. As one fan tweeted: