As the St. Louis Cardinals gear up to face the Milwaukee Brewers, there’s a buzz in the air regarding the potential return of Brendan Donovan. The 28-year-old second baseman has been sidelined due to a sprained left big toe, an injury that struck during a game on June 10th. However, Donovan is now on the verge of rejoining his teammates after successfully completing batting practice and ground ball work, as reported by SI.com.

Donovan has been instrumental for the Cardinals this season, showcasing a powerful bat with a .310 batting average and an on-base percentage of .379 over 64 games. He’s stood out with four home runs, 26 RBIs, and 35 runs scored, contributing significantly to the team’s record of 37-34 after a much-needed victory against the Brewers, which halted a six-game losing streak.

Injury Timeline and Recovery

The sprained toe, although troublesome, appears to be a manageable setback. An MRI revealed a sprained capsule in the joint of his left big toe, which raised concerns over a possible stint on the injured list. Donovan described avoiding the IL as a relief, noting that being placed on it would have been the worst-case scenario. Fortunately, he expects to miss less than ten games, enough to return to form without long-term ramifications, according to Sporting News.

Using a carbon-fiber orthotic in his shoe to manage the discomfort, Donovan remains optimistic about stepping back onto the field. His successful recovery emphasizes his resilience and determination, qualities that his supporters have come to admire.

Impressive Season Stats

Statistically, Donovan is having a breakthrough season. With an OPS of .819—the highest of his career—he currently ranks 11th in batting average and 10th in hits across the league. His 2025 season highlights include:

  • 77 hits
  • 35 runs
  • 20 doubles
  • 4 home runs
  • 26 RBIs
  • 22 walks
  • 37 strikeouts

These numbers put him on track to surpass previous offensive highs, solidifying his position as a key player for the Cardinals as they push through the season.

A Star on the Rise

Donovan’s path to the majors has been colorful. Born in Würzburg, Germany, he exhibited talent from an early age, earning accolades in high school and collegiate baseball. His accomplishments include being selected for the 2021 World Baseball Classic roster and earning the title of Most Outstanding Player at the Sun Belt Conference Tournament in 2017. His passion for the sport, matched with his ability to adapt to various positions in the field, has made him a valuable asset for the Cardinals.

Beyond the diamond, Donovan’s community involvement is equally laudable. He volunteers at the Loggerhead Marinelife Center and actively participates in conservation initiatives—a true role model on and off the field, as detailed by his profile on MLB.com.

As the Cardinals look to build on their recent victory, fans are eager to see Donovan back in action. His return is not just a boost for the team but also a testament to his hard work and dedication. The upcoming game against the Brewers might just be another chapter in his rapidly rising career.