Third baseman Josh Donaldson made a switch from Minnesota Twins to New York Yankees in 2022 via a blockbuster trade. The trade also included the likes of Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Ben Rortvedt. The team and fans had high hopes for the trio, eyeing their experience with previous statistics. However, tables turned as soon as they landed in the Bronx.
None of the above-mentioned players could perform up to expectations. Speaking of Josh Donaldson particularly, his offense was the worst the Yankees had ever seen. His overall stats for 2022 stood at .222, with 15 home runs and 62 RBIs. While the defensive plays earned him some brownie points, it was not enough to land the baseman on the good books of the highly critical Yankee fan base. On top of that, as the new season commenced, Donaldson’s situation stayed the same.
Josh Donaldson Unsure Of His Return, Claims Yankee Fan
Third baseman Josh Donaldson faced a trade scare during the off-season as the Yankees couldn’t find a suitable offer owing to Josh’s high contract value. Hence, the team decided to retain him for one additional year. Moreover, the baseman vowed a comeback that lasted only five games. After five mediocre outings, Donaldson strained his hamstring and made his way to IL accordingly. After rehab, the Yankees assigned him to a rehab assignment which turned out unsuccessful. Now according to the latest update provided by manager Aaron Boone, Josh sliced his thumb at home while trying to build something for his daughter, which puts him on a delayed return timeline.
Meanwhile, a Twitter user, who also happens to be a massive Yankees fan, has made a bold claim about the baseman’s situation. David Rifkin said via a tweet that he met Josh Donaldson at a welcome dinner, and he said the Yankees have placed him on the “Ellsbury rehab timeline.” For a little context, the above-mentioned terms refer to outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury who once played for the Yankees. He last played in 2017 and got ousted in 2019 after two failed seasons plagued by injuries. Hence, Josh feels he could meet the same fate as Jacoby. David also claims that Josh believes the Yankees are probably paying him to stay away, and he is unsure if he would get to don the pinstripes ever again.
After Chopping Off Aaron Hicks, The Yankees Could DFA’d Donaldson Next
Josh Donaldson’s fears might soon come true. The New York Yankees made a bold move over the weekend by assigning struggling outfielder Aaron Hicks for an assignment. Hicks’ seven-year journey in the Bronx came to an unfortunate end. As soon as Hicks’ news spread like wildfire, the Yankee fans could not help but predict the same fate for another struggling infielder, Josh Donaldson.
Josh Donaldson has had the same trajectory as Aaron Hicks performance-wise. Moreover, his injury issues and high contract value further make him no less than a burden. Not only that, in the baseman’s absence, infielder DJ LeMahieu has filled in the third base position perfectly. Hence, the Yankees now no longer need the services of Josh and could soon guide him to the exit doors.
