(Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
The New York Yankees shocked the world this week when they announced the release of third baseman Josh Donaldson.
Donaldson used to be a star in MLB, and even won an MVP award with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2015.
He is not that player anymore, though.
The infielder is in the last stages of his recovery from a strained calf and could be ready to play in a matter of days.
The Yankees didn’t have any use for him: they are currently prioritizing their young prospects, and bringing Donaldson back would have blocked some playing time for them.
The Milwaukee Brewers, according to recent reports, could be willing to take a long look at signing Donaldson.
They have a sudden need at the hot corner, as an MLB insider explains.
“Brewers considering free-agent 3B Josh Donaldson, sources tell me and @WillSammon. Team would only owe Donaldson pro-rated share of minimum salary. Third baseman Andruw Monasterio has regressed in August, with a .590 OPS for the month,” Ken Rosenthal tweeted.
Brewers considering free-agent 3B Josh Donaldson, sources tell me and @WillSammon. Team would only owe Donaldson pro-rated share of minimum salary. Third baseman Andruw Monasterio has regressed in August, with a .590 OPS for the month.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) August 31, 2023
It’s not like Donaldson has been much better when healthy this season.
He slashed .142/.225/.434 with a .659 OPS, but does have 10 home runs in just 34 games.
If the Brewers can live with a poor batting average, Donaldson is actually capable of hitting several home runs here or there.
That is provided he is fully healthy, of course.
He could never fully get going with the Yankees in two years, but perhaps playing in a more relaxed environment could help him.
In any case, for the league minimum, there is no harm in taking a shot.
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