Why Did the Yankees Get Josh Donaldson to Go? The New York Yankees are one of baseball’s most historic and celebrated franchises. So the decision to deal third baseman Josh Donaldson to the Chicago White Sox sent shockwaves around the baseball world. But, why did the Yankees make this decision?
Why the Yankees Get Josh Donaldson to Go
According to league insiders, the Yankees wanted to allow Donaldson to participate in the postseason. Donaldson has informed the squad that his calf is feeling better and that he expects to be able to play in September.
The Yankees are going with a youth movement in the final few weeks of the season, with Oswald Peraza playing the majority of the time at third base. Donaldson is therefore barred. The trade deadline has passed, thus the Yankees are unable to send Donaldson to a contender.
However, by releasing him today, New York has done him a favor by providing him the opportunity to sign elsewhere before the September 1 deadline to be eligible for a postseason team.
Donaldson will become an unrestricted free agent at 1 p.m. on Wednesday after clearing waivers, if a contender wants to take a chance on him, according to a league source.
Donaldson is a move that was mainly disappointing for the Yankees. The Yanks traded for Donaldson, catcher Ben Rortvedt, and utility player Isiah Kiner-Falefa from Minnesota prior to the 2022 season, sending Gary Sanchez and Gio Urshela.
Although Donaldson’s hitting abilities virtually disappeared in New York, his defense held firm. In 165 games over the course of two seasons, he hit 207 with 25 home runs, 77 RBI, and a.678 OPS.
How Did the Yankees Get Donaldson?
Josh Donaldson was acquired by the New York Yankees in March 2022 from the Minnesota Twins in a five-player trade. Both teams made a big move to support their respective title hopes and address certain requirements.
The Yankees wanted to improve their lineup at third base. They were worried about incumbent Gio Urshela’s sustainability in the long run and wanted an offensively reliable veteran leader.
The excellent hitter of the American League, Donaldson, managed over 240. His power and skills of reaching first base were shown when he was a part of the Minnesota Twins. Aside from being a good pitcher, his ability to lead was also and vital to the clubhouse.
At the age of 36, Donaldson was the Yankees’ guy, and they were ready and able to take over the $50 million of his money, even though there was the possibility of a downside. They held the view that his gift for offense and skill of play were enough reason for the cost.
Final Words
The Yankees of New York still rank among the most famous clubs in sports history, and no matter what they do they are under close scrutiny. Yet whatever the motives for the transporting of Josh Donaldson, it’s evident that building a title team is their priority.
READ ALSO!!!