Brendan Donovan, the newest leadoff hitter for the Seattle Mariners, finally took the field during the team’s fifth Cactus League game on Tuesday. Coming off an October sports hernia surgery, the organization chose to delay Donovan’s debut to ensure he had a solid foundation before returning to competitive play. This cautious approach allowed him time to adjust to a new team and position before fully engaging in spring training action.
Donovan Reflects on Initial Experience Wearing Mariners Uniform
Donovan acknowledged feeling some nerves as he stepped onto the field for the first time in a Mariners uniform, contrasting with his previous tenure in Cardinal red. Following Seattle’s 12-10 defeat to the Chicago White Sox, he shared,
“I had some jitters, I’m not going to lie,”
describing his mindset during the game’s early moments. Focused on maintaining control at the plate and capitalizing on good pitches, Donovan was determined to deliver impact from his first at-bats.
Strong Offensive Showing in First Game
Donovan did not disappoint, going 2-for-2 and scoring a run. His initial hit as a Mariner came swiftly in the first inning with a single to right field. He described the moment:
“I got on first base and I saw Cal (Raleigh) come up and I thought, I’m in scoring position right now,”
adding,
“So just making sure I was looking for any chance to get an extra 90 feet but not take the bat out of his hands, and before you know it, the bases are loaded. I’m thinking this has a chance to be a really special lineup.”
This demonstrates his keen attention to situational awareness and his enthusiasm for the team’s offensive potential.
Second At-Bat and Watching Teammates
In his second plate appearance, Donovan launched a line drive into center field with an exit velocity of 102.7 mph. He was replaced by a pinch runner and then observed from the dugout as Cal Raleigh hit a towering 427-foot homer, marking Raleigh’s first spring home run. Donovan chose to remain with the team rather than heading to the clubhouse immediately after his playing time ended, aiming to build camaraderie and learn about his new teammates.
Building Team Chemistry in the Dugout
Donovan emphasized the importance of forging interpersonal connections with his new teammates. He said, “I’m new here,” before adding,
“I’m trying to see how people play, talk to and build relationships on a personal level, and I feel that’s important to do in the dugout too. I believe in getting to know someone as a person too and then you get to know them as a player as well. That’s an area I tried to lean into today. I’m glad I was able to hang out a little later.”
His focus on team dynamics highlights his commitment to integrating into the Mariners’ clubhouse culture.
Cal Raleigh’s Notable Performance and Manager’s Comments
The game also featured a rare performance as Cal Raleigh played seven innings behind the plate, consistent with his preparation for representing Team USA in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. Raleigh added a single in the seventh at-bat with a 103.1 mph exit velocity before being substituted for a pinch runner. Mariners manager Dan Wilson praised Raleigh’s effort, saying,
“He could have come out after six. I asked him and he wanted to stay in. I think the thing that was impressive was that line drive to right field and how he came out of the box. It was a dead sprint and that’s the kind of player he is. He seems to be very close to being ready to go.”
Wilson’s remarks underline Raleigh’s readiness and eagerness to contribute at a high level.
Colt Emerson’s Impactful Contribution
Another standout performer was prospect Colt Emerson, who had a productive day going 2-for-3 with a crucial bases-loaded single in the fifth inning that drove in two runs. When discussing Emerson, Wilson noted,
“You can’t say enough about his at-bats,”
continuing,
“Not trying to do too much in those situations. Just really quality at-bats. Not looking to drive the ball out of the park but instead looking at pitches, seeing pitches, then getting a pitch he can handle and doing something with it. We talk about his maturity, that’s some pretty good maturity in those situations. He’s getting a chance to play and showing us what he can do.”
Emerson’s performance signals a promising start to his spring.
Upcoming Match and Pitching Update
Looking ahead, the Mariners are scheduled to face the Kansas City Royals in Surprise, Arizona, on Wednesday. Bryan Woo is expected to make his first spring start in this game. Fans can catch live radio coverage starting at noon via the Seattle Sports app, offering an early opportunity to follow Woo’s performance as the pitching rotation continues to take shape during the spring season.
Colt comes up clutch 👊 pic.twitter.com/JGFm4ThIw3
— Seattle Mariners (@Mariners) February 24, 2026
