Brendan Donovan made his much-anticipated debut for the Seattle Mariners, stepping onto the field after recovering from a sports hernia surgery. The Mariners' decision to ease Donovan into Cactus League action proved wise, allowing him to adjust to his new surroundings and position.
Donovan, previously with the Cardinals, admitted to feeling a bit of nervous excitement donning the Mariners' colors for the first time. “I had some jitters, I’m not going to lie,” he shared after the Mariners' 12-10 loss to the White Sox.
Despite the nerves, Donovan delivered, going 2 for 2 with a run scored. His inaugural hit as a Mariner was a solid single to right in the first inning.
“I got on first base and saw Cal (Raleigh) come up, and I thought, I’m in scoring position right now,” Donovan explained. He was keenly aware of the potential within the lineup, noting the chance for something special as the bases loaded.
His second at-bat was just as impressive, sending a line drive into center at a blistering 102.7 mph. After being replaced by a pinch runner, Donovan chose to stay in the dugout, soaking up the atmosphere and bonding with his new teammates.
“I’m new here,” he said. “I’m trying to see how people play, talk to and build relationships on a personal level.”
The game saw Cal Raleigh take five plate appearances, a rarity for a starting player in spring training. Raleigh, preparing for the World Baseball Classic, showcased his readiness with a 427-foot homer and a 103.1 mph single against White Sox lefty Tyler Schweitzer.
“He could have come out after six,” manager Dan Wilson noted. “But he wanted to stay in.
His hustle on that line drive to right was impressive. He’s very close to being ready.”
Prospect Colt Emerson also made waves, going 2 for 3 with two RBIs on a bases-loaded single. “You can’t say enough about his at-bats,” Wilson praised. “He’s showing maturity, taking quality at-bats and making the most of his opportunities.”
Looking ahead, the Mariners will face the Royals in Surprise, with Bryan Woo set to make his spring debut. Tune in for live coverage on the Seattle Sports app at noon.