With the GM Meetings fully underway, there is word that the Dodgers are reportedly interested in a former MVP to not only upgrade their roster but to take over the hot corner.
From our @jorgecastillo: The #Dodgers' preference for shorter-term deals has led them to pursue a free-agent third baseman — but not Anthony Rendon, at least not yet: https://t.co/4CtYKULTw7
— Bill Shaikin (@BillShaikin) November 13, 2019
Jorge Castillo of the Los Angeles Times is reporting according to sources that the Dodgers are considering making a run at signing free-agent third baseman Josh Donaldson.
Donaldson, 34, is coming off a strong season with the Atlanta Braves. In 155 games, the Bringer of Rain hit .259/379/.521/.900 (BA/OBP/SLG/OPS) with 33 doubles, 37 home runs, 94 RBIs, 96 runs scored, and a 155/100 K/BB ratio in 659 plate appearances. He is a career .273/.369/.509/.878 (BA/OBP/SLG/OPS) hitter overall, a career .271/.363/.491/.854 (BA/OBP/SLG/OPS) hitter against right-handed pitching, and a career .277/.385/.566/.951 (BA/OBP/SLG/OPS) hitter against left-handed pitching.
Donaldson is the third big-name free agent the Dodgers have reportedly been connected to this offseason, joining right-handed starter Gerrit Cole and fellow third baseman Anthony Rendon. While some few that the Dodgers need to address their rotation by signing Cole or addressing their offense by signing Rendon, the Dodgers could possibly be better served by signing a high-quality player like Donaldson along with a few other high-quality players rather than simply signing one free-agent to a monster deal.
The Dodgers’ interest in Donaldson should come as no surprise considering that Donaldson would give them a pretty significant boost to their offense from the right-handed side of the plate without a long term commitment. Donaldson will likely command a two or three-year deal with an average annual value of around $25 million.
One thing worth noting is that Donaldson was extended a $17.8 million qualifying offer from the Braves, so he is attached to draft pick compensation if he chooses to sign elsewhere this winter. Nevertheless, if signed, Donaldson would presumably take over at third base with Justin Turner moving to first base and Max Muncy sliding over to second base.
Josh Donaldson might not be Anthony Rendon but if the Dodgers fail to land Rendon, Donaldson would be an excellent consolation prize.