The San Francisco Giants are on a mission, and it’s one that could reshape their future. Their second base position has been a glaring weakness, and they’re not sitting idly by—they’re aggressively pursuing an upgrade. But here’s where it gets interesting: ESPN’s Jeff Passan reports that the Giants have intensified their efforts, zeroing in on two standout players from the NL Central: Nico Hoerner of the Cubs and Brendan Donovan of the Cardinals. Both names have been on the Giants’ radar, but their recent push suggests they’re serious about closing a deal. And this is the part most people miss: while these players are obvious targets, the Giants’ urgency hints at a deeper strategy to address their offensive struggles at second base.
Let’s face it—the Giants’ second basemen in 2025 were, statistically, among the least productive in baseball. With a combined batting line of .217/.273/.343 and a wRC+ of just 73 (27% worse than league average), they ranked a dismal 27th in the majors. Tyler Fitzgerald, Casey Schmitt, Christian Koss, and Brett Wisely all saw significant time at second base, but none came close to delivering average offensive numbers. Even Schmitt, who performed better at other positions, couldn’t salvage the team’s struggles at the keystone.
Enter Hoerner and Donovan—two players who could transform the Giants’ infield overnight. Both are 29 years old, established contact hitters, and defensively versatile. While the Giants already have Matt Chapman and Willy Adames anchoring the left side of the infield, adding either of these players would still be a massive upgrade. Donovan, fresh off a one-year, $5.8MM deal to avoid arbitration, is under team control through 2027. Hoerner, meanwhile, is in the final year of his three-year, $35MM contract, earning $12MM this season.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Donovan appears to be the more attainable target. The Cardinals, under new president Chaim Bloom, are in full rebuild mode, having already traded Sonny Gray and Willson Contreras. Donovan’s two remaining years of control don’t align with St. Louis’ timeline, making him a prime trade candidate. Hoerner, on the other hand, plays for a Cubs team in win-now mode. Trading him just after signing Alex Bregman to a five-year deal would feel like a step backward, and the Cubs would likely demand a steep price in return. Could the Giants meet their asking price, or is Donovan the more realistic option? It’s a question that divides even the most seasoned analysts.
Donovan’s track record speaks for itself. Since his MLB debut four years ago, he’s been a consistent hitter with a career .282/.361/.411 slash line and a 119 wRC+. His ability to avoid strikeouts—just 13.5% of his career plate appearances have ended in a K—makes him a rare asset. While his power is below average, his defensive versatility (second base, third base, outfield corners, and even shortstop in a pinch) adds immense value. Hoerner, meanwhile, mirrors Donovan’s offensive production with a .285/.342/.388 line over the past five seasons, though he’s a far superior base stealer with 131 career steals.
Financially, the Giants are well-positioned to make a move. Their projected $185MM payroll for 2026 is below their franchise record of $200MM, and recent nine-figure commitments to Chapman, Adames, and Devers suggest ownership is willing to spend. But with other roster needs, particularly in the bullpen, will they prioritize second base? And what about the free-agent market? Bo Bichette remains unsigned, and his landing spot could create ripple effects. If he signs with the Phillies, for instance, could Bryson Stott become available? The Giants’ options are plentiful, but their focus on Hoerner and Donovan signals a clear intent.
Here’s the burning question: Are the Giants willing to pay the price for a proven upgrade, or will they settle for a stopgap solution? With their aggressive pursuit, it’s clear they’re aiming high. But in the high-stakes world of MLB trades, nothing is guaranteed. What do you think—are Hoerner or Donovan worth the cost, or should the Giants explore other avenues? Let’s hear your take in the comments!
