Josh Donaldson Almost Joined Dodgers Before Toronto Tenure

Donaldson’s Unfulfilled LA Dream

After the 2018 campaign, Josh Donaldson found himself on the open market and the Los Angeles Dodgers made a concrete push to land the then‑three‑time All‑Star. According to Donaldson’s recent appearance on the “Get It Done League” podcast, the Dodgers presented a three‑year contract proposal and a sizable financial package. The veteran power hitter wanted a four‑year deal, as two other clubs were also circulating similar offers. When the Dodgers balked at extending the contract to a fourth year, they pivoted and executed a landmark acquisition instead.

The Dodgers’ Strategic Shift to Betts

The Dodgers abandoned the pursuit of Donaldson and turned their focus to the Boston Red Sox, ultimately securing Mookie Betts in a historic trade. In Donaldson’s own words, “They went and made the better move anyhow. They went and got Mookie and stole him from the Red Sox.” Betts has since become a cornerstone of the Los Angeles lineup, anchoring their infield with versatile defense and clutch hitting. This pivot reshaped the Dodgers’ roster and set a new standard for contender building in the 2010s.

Donaldson’s Path After Leaving Toronto

Free agency led Donaldson to a brief stint with the Atlanta Braves, where he signed a one‑year pact before moving on to the Minnesota Twins. The Twins rewarded his production with a four‑year contract that capped his final active seasons in MLB. Over those years, Donaldson accumulated 279 home runs and 816 RBIs, posting a career line of .261/.358/.489 while earning two Silver Slugger Awards. The former third baseman officially retired on March 4, 2024, closing a chapter that included a 2015 American League MVP season.

Donaldson’s MVP Season in Toronto

His most celebrated stretch came with the Toronto Blue Jays, where he helped the club clinch consecutive postseason berths and became a fan favorite. The 2015 campaign was a watershed moment: Donaldson batted .297, clubbed 41 home runs, and led the American League with 123 RBIs, earning the league’s MVP honor. Toronto Sun baseball reporter Dan Balicki highlighted the third baseman’s impact, noting his two All‑Star selections and two Silver Slugger Awards during his four seasons with the club. Even after his brief flirtation with LA, the Blue Jays remain synonymous with the peak of his career.

Legacy and What It Means for Future Free‑Agency Moves

Donaldson’s near‑sign with Los Angeles underscores how front offices balance immediate talent needs against long‑term roster construction. The Dodgers’ decision to pursue Betts over retaining Donaldson’s power at third base reshaped the battlefield of elite infielder acquisitions. For other teams, the episode serves as a case study in weighing short‑term upgrades against built‑in continuity. As free agency cycles continue, the moves highlighted by Donaldson’s story will likely influence how clubs evaluate aging power profiles and contract structures in the coming seasons.