7:27pm: The signing is now official, with the Braves announcing it.
1:35pm: The Braves have reportedly made the largest free-agent strike of the offseason so far, agreeing to terms on a one-year contract with former American League MVP Josh Donaldson. The contract is said to guarantee Donaldson the same $23MM salary he earned in 2018 and will give the MVP Sports client an opportunity to re-enter free agency next winter — hopefully on the heels of a healthier, more productive season than the injury-ruined 2018 campaign through which he just struggled.
Donaldson, 33 in December, was limited to just 219 plate appearances this year as he battled a shoulder issue early in the season and a calf injury that cost him roughly three months of action. He posted a solid but unspectacular .246/.352/.449 batting line and eight homers when healthy — above-average production relative to the rest of the league but a tremendously far cry from the composite .282/.377/.524 batting line he logged from 2013-17.
[Related: Updated Braves depth chart and Braves payroll outlook]
If healthy, Donaldson will give an already imposing Braves lineup a massive boost — to say nothing of top-shelf defense at the hot corner. Atlanta already had premium glovework at third base thanks to Johan Camargo, but the Braves will now have the luxury to deploy Camargo at a number of positions. Camargo, soon to turn 25, can give the Braves some cover at third base, shortstop and second base at the very least. Speculatively speaking, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Atlanta try him in the outfield corners during Spring Training as well; if Camargo proved capable, the Braves could deploy him in a Marwin Gonzalez or Ben Zobrist-esque fashion, granting him fairly regular at-bats while spelling Donaldson, Dansby Swanson and Ozzie Albies, among others. The signing of Donaldson could push back the debut of prospect Austin Riley by nearly a full year, but Riley is still just 21 years old and has only played 150 games above Class-A Advanced. Some additional development time certainly won’t hurt — especially when considering his 29.5 percent strikeout rate in Triple-A last season.
The agreement with Donaldson marks a reunion between the slugger and general manager Alex Anthopoulos. The pair are well acquainted from Anthopoulos’ time as the Blue Jays’ general manager, with the trade that brought Donaldson to Toronto standing out as one of the most successful moves of Anthopoulos’ front-office career. (Kendall Graveman, Franklin Barreto, Sean Nolin and Brett Lawrie went to the A’s in return.)
The $23MM salary, combined with the reported $2MM salary the Braves will pay fellow free-agent addition Brian McCann, will push Atlanta’s Opening Day payroll projection to just north of $117MM. That’s already just about $1MM shy of their 2018 mark and $5MM shy of the all-time franchise record, so it seems apparent that the Braves’ NL East title and emerging core have spurred ownership to become more aggressive in terms of payroll. By adding Donaldson to the heart of a lineup that also features Rookie of the Year Ronald Acuna and perennial MVP candidate Freddie Freeman, the Braves have made an early splash that’ll have significant ramifications on the 2019 division race and put additional pressure on rivals like the Phillies, Nationals and Mets to further act to bolster their rosters as they seek to remain competitive in a rapidly improving division.
Steve Phillips of MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM first tweeted that the two sides were nearing a deal. Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported the agreement and the terms.
Bad news for dansby?
More like bad news for Camargo
I think Camargo is better
Agreed
I’d say Camargo is the sell high guy. For example, he’s hit more homers in the majors than in his entire minor league career in almost only 1/3 of the plate appearances. I’d be weary on trusting him long-term right now.
I completely agree. I think he had a great 2017 campaign, but I’m weary of him long term as well. A great utility player to have off the bench.
He’s not better at SS. Dansby is the superior defender. But, this deal makes me think someone is on the move (Camargo or Dansby) otherwise, makes NO sense why they’d sign Donaldson, especially for $23m.
Because AA is the GM, it’s why they signed him.
“For example, he’s hit more homers in the majors than in his entire minor league career in almost only 1/3 of the plate appearances. I’d be weary on trusting him long-term right now.”
Are you weary of Albies too?
Yes
I’m wary of this thread.
Hold your Shorts!Camargo will be in the lineup most everyday,just at different positions and end up with just a many AB’s
I haven’t scrolled far, but that’s the best comment so far the kutch.
Why, thank you, Sir.
some guys develop power late I remember Don Mattingly as a guy who never hit double digit hrs in minors and he was consistent in pros til the back went
It also speaks to Austin Riley, basically this pillow deal for Donaldson gives him an additional year to prove himself at AAA all-around and let him earn it for 2020. Notice there’s no options in there, but with the relationship that AA and Donaldson have – if Riley doesn’t look ready by then and Donaldson plays well (and is happy), he could easily get an extension too.
This also addresses the sorely-needed bench by having Camargo, who I think most of the ABs he had last year but in different positions.
Yes, I agree that this move probably addresses the bench as much as it does thirdbase (unless one of Dansby, Camargo or Culberson is dealt away). I would expect Donaldson would probably rest a day or so a week and Camargo approaches 450 at bats or do playing around the diamond.
It was slightly more money than I had first thought. I was expecting only about $20 million on a one year pillow deal.
One thing MLB.com mentions that should be noted is that Donaldson could receive a QO from ATL, and ATL could get a compensatory pick when he inevitably turns it down for a multi-year deal (if he signs elsewhere). It’s important that signing him this year without losing a pick and possibly gaining an additional pick next year means AA is protecting the future.
The other thing I see is that the Braves can extend a QO at the end of the year if Donaldson is great which would enable them to get an extra draft pick as well. This is an excellent one year play, although expensive does not require a long term commitment that would tie them down a few years from now.
With ATL not being players in the international market another few years, they can afford to spend money like now especially if it can pickup more picks later to makeup for the presumed losses.
They could move Camargo to RF or rotate him from 3b, SS, RF.’ Donaldson gives Freeman a back up and it is only a one year contract.
Maybe a trade of Swanson or Camargo to LA for Bellinger. LA needs 2B and Atlanta needs OF with power.
Why not bellinger and buelher?
I wonder if you were serious.
In no world could you get bellinger for carmago AND swanson.
He’s not serious. I’m sure it was a joke.
Not a fit, for Atlanta.
lol, or maybe you could trade Acuna for Keke Hernandez and Alex Verdugo?
So you want the Braves to get worse at end with kikė Hernandez instead of Acuna Jr.
If LA could get Swanson and Camargo for Berlinger, they would do it, give Bullets the key to the city, and deed him the Hollywood sign.
Lol doubt Braveone71 is not serious.
Actually, I think it is good news for both Dansby and Camargo, plus Albies. —- they a day or 2 off each week now, and so does Donaldson. Camargo becomes the super sub they always pictured him being. If it is bad news for anyone it’s Culberson.
Camargo listed as LF on roster.
Called it. Donaldson is well loved by AA
2019 QO candidate if he actually follows through and “makes good.”
Nice. Another 2$ Million in pick value there as long as he signs for over $50 million. So a 2 or 3 year deal would trigger it if he just has a full season like his one before last (OPS 148 and OPS .148 with indians last year).
^^OPS 146 with Indians
2019 World Series champs?
If they cash in prospects for Kluber and sign one more OF, it seems plausible.
Maybe Cleveland likes Camargo in part of a package for Kluber. Especially if they move Kipnis.
Cleveland doesn’t need Camargo, they need an actual outfielder.
I haven’t checked out Camargo’s stats, but Cleveland does have a need at 3B since Ramirez is probably staying at 2B.
Ender Inciarte might be an option!!
Yandy Diaz will be our 3b now that you guys have signed Donaldson. Cleveland believes he will turn into a real hitter.
If Camargo can play OF, not opposed to taking him on. He is a switch hitter and Tito loves those guys. More than anything, we need real hitters.
For what it is worth, I really like Inciarte. For Kluber, we are going to want a LOT. Two top 100 prospects, a major league reliever and a top 10 or so prospect. A major league player could replace one of the prospects, but they would have to be the real thing.
They should dump Alonso for literally anything and move Diaz to 1st.
His poor defense won’t be as bad at 1B and he’ll be better at it if he starts training now rather than halfway through the season like last year
Ender Inciarte, Julio Teheran, Arodys Vizcaino, and Kolby Allard for Kluber!!
please . . . kill yourself.
yup if they could get Brantly and he stays healthy and trade for Kluber they will be the team to beat in the east.
Have to think Washington is the team to beat in the east no matter what happens in the offseason.
23m? WTF
One year deal, no future commitment. Makes perfect sense
And what happens when they need more cash to acquire someone at the deadline, or other pieces they need this off season? They must have a lot more money than I originally thought.
I do believe the Braves have money to spend if needed. They do not seem to have huge financial commitments of any kind, at least from a “AAV” standpoint.
Plus Markakis is off the books.
You just got an MVP for 23/1 year.
What is the complaint?
They’ve always been good about stating that there hasn’t been a deal that had to walk away from yet (that they were interested in) because of money. That being said, I’m sure they will be conscious of that, but if they do put together a special season and need additional funds – I could see ownership kicking in.
Then they have 30M more to spend..
Calculations around baseball beat writers had Braves with anywhere from $50-$60 million available. It has been said that AA would go the Trade route for starting pitching. Seems feasible they have roughly at least $30 million left for FA’s (thinking Kimbrel and David Robertson here) all the while getting a TOR pitcher via trade. Lane Adams holds the fort in LF until Pache graduates a couple of weeks into April.
An ex-MVP. JD’s 34 now, coming off a year when he barely cracked 800 OPS, and that MVP season might as well be a decade ago. Camargo’s probably the better player. If I’m GM’ing a team that doesn’t have an every day 3B, I’m calling the Braves right now.
He was hurt
You do realize Camargo barely cracked an .800 OPS himself, right? In fact, JD had a better year by OPS+.
It’s a risk, but w/it being one-year it’s minimized. However, I have my doubts that Donaldson will be able to re-create his 2013 – 2016 version of himself.
I do like how the Braves are “going for it” in ’19. You have to think that they will look to add an arm or two.
I feel like Camargo MIGHT be the better player as well. However, having someone like Camargo filling a super utility roll because he can play 3B, 2B, SS, 1B, pinch hit and maybe even the OF while providing a good bat is a strength that every team would love to have.
He’s going to get plenty of plate appeances.
He had a .920 OPS with the Indians at the end of the year at his healthiest. He’s gonna be fine.
“And what happens when they need more cash to acquire someone at the deadline, or other pieces they need this off season?”
They are projected to have 50-60 mil in payroll space this off season. If they save 10 mil for in season additions that still leaves them roughly 40-50 mil. I think it is closer to the 50 mil end that is left.
23 mil for Donaldson plus 2 mil for McCann still leaves roughly 25 mil to add a SP, OF, and bullpen additions.
I think the Braves are fine cash flow wise!
Plus he won’t be playing on Rogers Centre turf
Pache isn’t that close to being ready. He has a ways to go still with the bat. My guess is he won’t be called up this year as he could use at least another year of seasoning.
If you’re GM’ing a team. Oddly enough, you aren’t. But good input.
The complaint is that people on this site can’t see past further back than one year when gauging a player
Ervin Santana
Agreed ouch!! $ 23 million for a one year seems steep to me
Everybody says paying Mike Leake 17 mil is a GREAT idea, so this seems like a good number
Agree. 23 million for a guy who can’t stay off the DL. Braves got fleeced.
Fleece me again, baby! Fleece me again. I love it. If the Braves can get “fleeced” like this they ask for another.
He had one bad year (2018, and one ok year 2017) otherwise he’s been a regular and has often hit 158 games a few times.
Even COUNTING the last two years where he spent some time on the DL, he’s played in 869 games in the last 7 years. He had DL time in ’17 and ’18 and played in “only” 217 games between those two seasons. That doesn’t qualify him as “can hardly stay off the DL,” IMO.
Seems steep
Braves have been adamant about not tying up money downstream and a willingness to pay more upfront
This makes sense to me and I’m ok with this deal
I don’t know if it was worth it to not go all in for Grandal if the McCann signing was some sort of compromise but at least they did something
I would have preferred a Camargo Grandal combo to a Donaldson McCann combo if that’s how this all went down though
Let’s all thank god your not the GM!!
Do you have any idea how much better this makes the braves lineup? Grandal will get a ton of money to strikeout 200 times and bat 230
My only concern about the money is which Donaldson did they just pay for?
23 mill for a box of peanut brittle,,
How good is peanut brittle though! I love peanut brittle
Bravos are making moves.
This is good. Donaldson is a beast. They should use Camargo as trade bait for a SP. Incude him in a Bumgarner deal alongside Touki and the giants throw in Smith.
WAS a beast
Nows he’s just a bea
Maybe Cleveland likes Camargo in part of a package for Kluber. Especially if they move Kipnis.
In what false reality are you residing that you believe a package headlined by a slightly-above-average ..281 hitting non-prospect is going to get the second-best pitcher in baseball?
No way do the Giants ship Bumgarner to Atlanta for anything less Soroka, Riley, Gohara and one of Toussaint, Pache or Waters. Atlanta would be getting a proven ace still in his prime who would instantly make them WS favorites, not a #3 starter coming off TJ.
you need to learn about surplus value
madbum has between $6 and $12m worth depending on how you rate him. thats like one arm prospect in the 70s of the top 100
Sorry guys, but Bumgarner nets two elite prospects. He”s literally the best World Series pitcher in history and has the balls to pitch in big games. You can throw all the stats on peripherals you want, but he knows how to win and the Braves have no number 1.. For one prospect, the Giants might as well just keep him.
The second best pitcher in baseball was had a 6-6 record last year? Who knew?
And you are in a false sense of reality if you think that Bumgarner would rate anywhere close to that sort of package. His peripheral stats took a dive and he isn’t the horse he once was.
The hell? All that for 1 year of a not-the-same-as-2015 Mad Bum? He’d bring a Braves Prospect 20-40 (pick 1) for 1 year.
He’s also far from the Ace of the past.
Not hardly. We now have our own super utility similar to Swiss G.
I’m in Houston, and I don’t know a single person who calls Marwin Gonzalez “Swiss G”
Why didn’t the Cards top this?
Getting Goldy and Harper. They don’t need Donaldson.
Machado or The Moose.
more like moose he fits mo’s m.o.
LOL
Because it is very early in the market and there are still plenty of options and moving parts.
We may have bigger fish to fry.
ha, no you don’t…
last big fish St. Louis ever fried?????
They have Jon Jay on their radar.
They better already know they are getting a bigger name. Otherwise there is no excuse to not top this deal
$23m is a lot for 1 year of a guy with health questions.
If pieces start falling, cards could be left in the dust. Still have hope they figure it out, but one less option on the table for them. Its gyorko, carp or a trade pickup for third base in 2019, not great.
Kyle Seager for Jose Martinez and a couple of prospects.
I suggested this a couple weeks ago. I’m all for it, pry away colome too.
great question. Al from white plains must be happy about this too.
Al from White Plains is getting play on this site? Casey would be so proud.
Al from white plains is everywhere…… long time wfan caller first time listener. gotta go happy hour about to start,
Because they are in need of a five year rebuild just to compete with Cinny and Pittsburgh who gave up dreams of barely making the WC (in which they would lose that one game, just like the Cards would if they even were good enough to make it past 3 years) to rebuild 2 years ago.
well now.
Good on them for getting this done early. I hate it when a team sits on their hands and picks up the scraps because they didnt want to outbid another team by a couple million
Wow! Dang braves! Go get some
1 year….23 million
0-2
Same
I have a feeling i’ll soon be 0-3.
Hard to believe this was better than a multi-year deal, wow.
Not hard to believe. If he was looking at two year deals at a probably pretty significant cut in AAV why not take the one year gamble and go get yourself 3 years at this rate next year?
If he waits until Machado is off the board, he’s getting a three year deal. After spending the last two years hurt, this is a huge risk for him. But hey, it’s not my money.
When you’re about to get 23 million dollars for one year and you just made 18 you can afford to take a gamble for more. Donaldson doesn’t seem like the kind of guy who settles to me. He has one more shot at a big deal and I don’t think he was ever getting that this offseason. Nor do his odds increase the longer he signed for so I can see it.
Would you have considered a 2 year for $35 mil deal better?
With his injury history? Absolutely. But if he waits for the teams that miss out on Machado to bid for him, I would have guessed three years at 50-55 mil. Maybe the market from last year spooked him, maybe he really thinks he can stay healthy and still produce enough to top that. We will see
If he can hit anywhere near his career numbers in a offensive-minded ballpark like SunTrust, someone that lost in the Arenado sweeps next year will give him a multi-year deal. I’d even see ATL being interested.
I’m not sure SunTrust is all that much an offense stadium now that they finished building the surrounding areas
Before the hotel was up it created a wind tunnel in the first season which cause balls to launch out
That’s not the case now
Park factors had it ranked as one of the lowest for home runs
It also rated with a Park Factor below 1.00 in doubles and triples
Yes it was above slightly in runs (as it was in singles and walks) but I feel this is attributed more to the Braves timely hitting and patience at the plate than anything the park brought to the offense
SunTrust is pretty balanced for both sides of the ball so I doubt Donaldson will be getting park favors being here
If he hits well it will genuinely be because he’s healthy and producing
Is he better than Camargo at this stage? Must be contemplating flipping him …
They did not sign Donaldson with the idea of flipping him. That’s crazy talk
AA’s shopping on Cyber Monday!
When healthy he is a beast, and it’s only for 1 season so he can rebuild his value.
A “make good” deal for $23m? Geez.
Great signing for Atlanta.
But I can confirm I am now 0/2, this should be fun. But still, very good signing for ATL I believe it’ll pay off greatly.
I had him going to STL. Bummed because of the contest but excited the Braves are pushing.
Also means it’s one less 3B on the market (maybe 2 depending on how you view Austin Riley), which puts more pressure on PHI to act (Machado at 3B?) Yes, they have the money, but it’s always great when a team commits one of the biggest deals ever somewhat out of reaction than action (though they’d never admit it).
I have Machado to PHI. The Braves have good insurance options if Donaldson gets injured. Camargo steps back in, call up Austin Riley.
Maybe this means carmago to left. He has the arm.
preller should be on the phone right now with AA seeing about what he’d want in return for a camargo deal. would inquire about riley just for kicks as well, but i can’t imagine him being moved with JD just getting a one year deal. maybe if it were multiyear, but i still doubt riley gets moved at all
lucchesi & campusano for camargo?
I was going to link the Padres to the Braves as well following this deal.
Camargo is the young controllable third baseman the Padres are looking for. The Braves have JD for one season and then Riley to take over from 20’ on.
The Braves came out this offseason and stated they wanted to fix their bullpen and they have a hole in RF.
Braves trade 3B Johan Camargo and SP Kolby Allard for RP Kirby Yates, RP Robert Stock, RF Hunter Renfroe.
ATL gets two more back end bullpen pieces, controlled for multiple years at an affordable rate. They also fill Markakis in RF with Renfroe, also controllable and a really nice power corner-option until Pache is ready.
The Padres get their Third baseman for the future. A switch hitter who can also play SS and 2B if needed. A younger/better version of Marwin Gonzalez. Very clutch from watch I have seen as well. Also get Allard to add another high upside LH arm to the Padres organization.
There’s no way you’re getting Camargo and Allard for Yates and Renfroe
Quite frankly Camargo alone is enough to pull back Yates and Renfroe.
ehh, i think adding renfroe and allard to the deal complicates things more than anything. i’d just revise that down to camargo for yates straight up. i’m figuring markakis would try to resign back with ATL. even still, i’m not too keen on moving renfroe at all either. reyes instead would be my preference, or possibly franchy/reed as well
Probably just me, but I’d do this deal. I’d then look to add Marwin Gonzalez to the Braves.
Unless you think Marwin good hold down the COF spot, we already have Camargo that all indications are that he’ll be utilized like Marwin.
I do think he could but his trade involved trading Margo. That’s why I said Braves would go pick Marwin up.
The Padres need to hold on to Renfroe for at least one more year. He was hitting a ton the last 3rd of the season. He seemed to be hitting better against righties than lefties ever since he opened up his stance.
Braves fan are hyping the F out of Camargo. Luchuesi for Camargo?
Haniger for Camargo?
Lmao
Want Camargo ? Let’s talk Haniger
Well, kudos to the Braves.
I still believe Donaldson.
Hope he does well!
good move., if hes good QO and get a pick, if not , just one year of salary and move on. i hope they move camargo to SS and trade swanson with someone else for a front line starter
I think this is a great idea! Swanson could play 2nd for the Indians 🙂
Big day for Atlanta. This is a big bet by the Braves and a pretty decent bet on himself for Donaldson.
This will be interesting to watch.
Braves have always been my second favourite team (I used to get TBS back in the day and watched them all the time lol). Glad to see that Donaldson went there. Hope the Braves win the World Series, honestly.
Cool story bro
Thanks! I wrote it just for you 🙂 I’m going to grill some sausage for dinner tonight, and have it with some gnocci. I’m quite excited.
You near London? I don’t have dinner plans
Nah, I’m a few hours east of Toronto.
Exactly how I became such a Cubs fan. They used to be on WGN all the time when I was a kid. They never won but they had some fun players to watch. Sandberg, Grace, Dawson, Girardi, Maddux, Dunston and they were managed by Don Zimmer. 1989 is when my deep rooted hatred for Will Clark started.
So your connection to your team is entirely built around TV? Cool
When you live in a region that has no major league team, then, yeah, that’s how you do it.
You know what I think is cool?
Powderb and his brilliant reply’s.
Say what you want but that’s comedic genius.
People think something is cool and BOOM you just put them in their place.
Id say you should do stand up but you’re probably already extremely successful.
Yeah he spends his days trolling on MLBTR comment sections because he’s “extremely successful”.
Say that sentence out loud and ask yourself if it makes any sense.
Holy Cow!
Will was my favorite player of all time..I loved when he single handily destroyed your Cubs! Bwahahaha
My God that’s a lot of money for a guy that wasn’t very good last year
1-2
No such thing as a bad 1 year deal
This might be it.
If Donaldson misses 5+ Months again and is paid 23MM, it’s hard to say that’s a good deal.
Doesn’t mean it’s a bad deal, though
It absolutely means it’s a bad deal! If Donaldson plays as many or less games than he did last season, the Braves are flushing 23 MM down the drain.
It’s obviously a bad deal if josh Donaldson comes to the plate less than 200 times. There is obviously injury risk but it is what it is. It’s a one year deal and you can’t get a guy with his talent on a deal like this unless he was coming off an injury.
If he’s injured all season and then hits .450 in the postseason and gives them the World Series, it’s a good deal.
WDE!
Dam, I had him signing with the Cardinals.
This messes up my Moose prediction to Braves too lol
If Camargo becomes available i think the Padres and Braves will match up nicely for a trade.
And The Chips Begin To Fall !!! I Love It. !!!!!!!
Thank goodness for that relationship between AA and Donaldson. I’m sure that most teams would love to add someone with Donaldson’s upside on just an one year deal.
I feel like between the McCann signing and this, a big trade is about to happen. The bench was strengthened by the Donaldson signing and I assume catching is complete. I wouldn’t mind them trading for Stanton and them some relievers
Stanton is not being moved. Seriously, stop with that nonsense. I don’t normally make concrete predictions like that, but Stanton going anywhere is absolutely a ludicrous prediction.
If another team is foolish enough to take on the rest of Stanton’s contract, Yanks would flip him in a heartbeat.
In 2 years you’re going to be begging them to trade him.
Camargo for Stanton and $200 million!!!
Wow!!! There’s no sugar coating this, this is a sledgehammer to the chest for Mets fans. I really hope Brodie Van Wagenen is paying attention because the braves have become monumentally better in the last couple of hours.
The Mets weren’t going to compete this year anyway.
Van Waggie moves quick. Countered with Jordan Patterson. Your move, NL East!
Love the move! We can find a way to keep him healthy with Camargo ready to play at 3rd when needed. We can find plenty of at-bats for Camargo at 3rd, short, and second. And yes, the dollars are high, but it’s just 1 year. Let’s solve LF and get some pitching depth!
6.1% of readers got it right
Braves are now my NL team. Jays are my AL.
Chop chop chop
Nice two years $23M contract!. WAIT, ONE YEAR!!!!
All kidding aside, I complete understand mitigating the injury risk associated with Donaldson, but all things considered, that’s just too much money for a 1 year deal. I’m sorry. That should have been two years and $28M-$30M. Would have made FAR more sense.
Why? They have money to spend this offseason, and this means zero commitment going forward. There’s no point sitting on their thumbs and getting to the end of the offseason with money spare – use it.
Yeah 2/30 made much more sense to Atlanta but why would that make sense for josh Donaldson? Barring a career ending injury he’ll top 5 mil in his sleep next offseason. I’d like to have Machado on a 5 year deal instead of 8-10 but it isn’t going to happen.
Great, so feel free to offer 2 years and 30mm total, which Josh rejects to sign elsewhere. Now what? This is a marketplace with limited options.
Harper to Cardinals now
Dream on
MLBTR prediction was one year, $23M, so this isn’t far off. Limited risk, Braves are an up and coming team. I
Finally the offseason is underway!
I would have preferred 18M with 5M incentives, but maybe that wouldn’t have gotten it done.
Two good moves for the Braves. They needed a good righty bat to hit behind Freeman and two veteran catchers with a young staff is a good thing.
What a joke!! Sorry, but 1st a broke down McCann and now $23mil for a broke down Donaldson.. Braves just took a step backward!!!
What happens if Austin Riley shows he is ready in spring training and Donaldson is slumping?
The person next to the person thinking that slaps them and tells them it’s spring training and Austin Riley hasn’t seen a lick of MLB pitching, then reminds them of the difference between Dansby Swanson (promotion too early) and Ronald Acuna (promotion just right).
lol
Dansby wasn’t promoted too early
This is just the player he is I’m afraid
He was 100% promoted too early. He hit just. 261/.345/.402 in AA before the promotion.
I thought it has readily been mentioned how they rushed him from AA to appease the fans, which was all but admitted when he was sent back briefly to AAA to work on his swing and get regular ABs.
Looking good for inter-league play. We need one more OF and our position players are set. Non-tender Sam, trade for Greinke and cash or one of the Cleveland starters, sign Kimbrel and/or trade for Diaz, and we’re done.
I love how the Braves front office is so secretive! KR tweets about the Braves showing interest, 2 minutes later, the signing is done.
I’m honestly surprised by this. I’m very aware of the 2018 he had but I would have thought he would have held out for a longer deal. Makes sense though. That AA ninja strikes again.
One year deal for Josh Donaldson? Very good.
At $23-million? Not so good.
Once again, AA severely outbids for a guy they did not need. Meaning, they did not need a 3B. Not a single team was going to pay over $20-mil for an injury-prone player unless it was an American League team.
Yes I am aware of Donaldson’s upside. Didn’t Atlanta need another SP, a closer and another outfielder?
Yes I am aware of Donaldson’s contract only being for 1 year. Before anyone mentions that it won’t hurt the Braves this year, it ALWAYS hurts a team when you throw big money at a player who plays a position you did not need to fill. Ask Philadelphia. Ask the 2015 Blue Jays prior to the Tulowitzki deal when they were 50-51 after 101 games.
This deal might work out but this truly wasn’t the right one to make for this team.
I’m hoping Camargo is sent to a corner outfield but I really don’t know if he can play there. Otherwise I agree this is not the greatest deal.
If Camargo can play OF then I look at this as a decent 1 year pick up. But again I think it’s unlikely and is more likely a deal for a position they did not need like you said.
I don’t think it’s a bad deal on paper though. It’s only a bad deal because the Braves really didn’t need a 3B. What they needed was Grandal at catcher…. that’s where this money should have gone but they blew that just so they could do this.
We don’t know who was/is offering a one year deal around that price. The sample size of one year deals for high-tier FA’s is very limited – all we do know, is that the less years, the higher the AAV.
I would say the majority of deals offered to JD were of the 2/32 or 3/45 variety – which become redundant when a guy is willing to take a pillow contract and hit free agency again next year.
And why is it guaranteed to hurt them? They have clearly identified who they are candidates for in free agency, and will have a fair idea about where and how much they can spend. If they have plenty of money for this years payroll, spend it. That potential money is useless if they don’t put it into the Team, even for incremental upgrades.
Unless it becomes clear that they miss out on upgrades elsewhere because of this contract, then it’s not wasted.
Valid points but your examples of when it really hurts the teams is when you give X player multiple years. The risk is really limited in a one year deal. The only downside is if prevents them from getting an elite starter or closer but I don’t think the Braves make this deal if it takes them out of making further deals. They obviously think this fits in the budget. Hard to judge just yet but lets wait and see the other moves
Once again, someone doesn’t get it. Just like last year, AA is doing everything he can to keep future spending down while investing in the present (last year: Matt Kemp traded for 2019 salary relief + Culberson and parts). Donaldson will be an offensive and defensive upgrade to Camargo, while providing protection to Freeman and needed power, while allowing Camargo to be more of a utility player which address the bench need, and takes stress off finding a big COF bat. Yes, they could still land Brantley, Pollock, Cutch, Kakes — but they don’t need to overspend doing so. Having Camargo provided them this luxury. This also puts some pressure on PHI to act.
Will Donaldson be an upgrade? Given his recent calf and shoulder issues this should be a concern. But if you’re cool with that, so am I.
Braves needed an OF. Their OF prospects are at least a couple years away (Pache, Waters). Landing the guys you mentioned wouldn’t have broke the bank. Plus it would have given the Braves more flexibility at the pitching position, and then at the deadline if/when they need 1 more guy.
Yeah, someone doesn’t get it. Sure pal….
Who says they’re done? They always had the capacity to spend on the major FA but didn’t want to invest in only 1 person – and that’s not including if they find a taker for Teheran and his $11MM (+1MM buyout) or Darren O’Day and his 9MM. They still have prospect capital to swing any trade they want which should make-up for any financial concerns that haven’t been presented.
Sure, major calf issues 2018 – but we still have Camargo. So rest Donaldson and we still have the 2018 playoff team. And as the article states, you could have Camargo play in COF. He’s athletic enough to make that transition.
Pache just had a strong AFL where some said he was the #3 best prospect behind Vlad Jr and Forrest Whiteley – considering his glove would be an instant upgrade – he could be further along than we all think.
^Nobody said anything about being done.
Can’t be leaning on the idea of Teheran and/or O’Day being traded. Better odds that they will be dealt for similar money, and then the Braves will have a bigger need for arms.
As for playoffs….well, they might make it back. Great to be the big fish in a small pond. I guess if they place 3rd in the division it means Donaldson’s contract is off the books for 2020. So I guess they’ll have that going for them.
Your baseball IQ is lacking, sir
AA gets back Josh Donaldson for one season at $23mm…. bringing the band back together, and the kind of move that could take the Braves to the World Series if it works out. Who did the Jays get for Donaldson?
Braves Have A Good Team ?
Need a couple more starters. . . They’re not done yet.
Freeman future HOF’r ?
Needs to get to 3000 hits for That. !!!
AA is sneaky. We now have 2 backup catchers. What are y’alls thoughts on the possibility that the McCann signing is to actually make a move for Realmuto? Marlins would need a catcher in return so the braves could include Flowers in that deal. Have realmuto as the primary catcher with BMAC as the backup
Flowers and Camargo for JTR and Brian Anderson!
Great move by AA
1. Move johan to short and dansby to the bench. Dansby who basically could only hit in 7 inning and up last year will serve as a great PH, defensive sub, and pinch runner. Also since it’s a one year deal could give him more time to work on the swing
2. Top of lineup is deadly with 1. Acuña 2. Albies (hopefully hits like at the start of the year) 3. Freddie 4. Donaldson (who will hopefully hit like he did when healthy)
Overall great move
Even if he’s injured this season 23/1 is good acquisition cost for a premium player. They don’t even lose a draft pick, it’s all just money and frankly that’s money that can be spent next season on a new budget.
People were upset by how much JDM made and now they think it’s a bargain, just look at the possibility that the Braves could have a MVP candidate for nothing but cash.
We payed 23mil for Adrian Gonzales last yr. How did he work out?
We released Gonzales as soon as we got him from LA, that’s why he dropped his no trade clause. Atl did that on purpose.
We still had to pay him.
You realize that was a contract swap trade lol
Great, by paying him $23MM we didn’t have to start Kemp in the OF, sent him home to an All-Star selection, while promoting the Rookie of the Year, while watching A-Gonz play for our rival, the lowly Mets, taking the spot of their best prospect: 1B Peter Alonso, who somehow was not promoted.
All-in-all, turned out well there.
JDM came off a great 2017 season. He signed for less than predicted. Donaldson’s numbers have been declining since 2015 and so has his health. There should be cause for concern, but Atlanta wasn’t prepared to sign Harper or Machado to a longterm deal which isn’t surprising given their GM does not believe in deals longer than 5-years.
Harper to Cardinals and Goldy also. Goodbye Cubbies.
That sounds like a sure thing.
Oops, you forgot Milwaukee.
Dream on.
I understand it’s limited risk but 23 mil still seems high.
I love this signing! I don’t like the “Camargo to short” comments, however. You can’t give up on Dansby like that. I would totally be game with trading him to the Mariners for Jean Segura, though!
It’s not giving up bc it’s a one year deal if anything it’s better for dansby. It’ll give him time to work on his swing and he’ll be pinch hinting with the fact he hits best in late games. Also carmargo is young too don’t just fall in love with dansby bc of what he’s supposed to be, if someone’s playing better play them, and that’s definitely the case with carmargo has surprised everyone multiple times.
Where did you get the idea that Dansby Swanson is going to be pitch hitting? More likely Camargo will be the second utility guy along with Culberson. Swanson has only been at SS. Camargo can play every position but catcher (and he might be able to do that too). Putting Swanson in as a pinch hitter is not a good idea if you want to develop a swing. You go in cold typically and you never get enough consecutive ABs to feel comfortable.
Frankly this is a great move by the Braves. I suggested it but I’m not sure that they actually heard me (LOL).. By having 2 utility guys that can play nearly every position that potentially allows BS to add another relief pitcher.
Dansby is best batting 7 and up where he bats around .330 and with his batting avg being around .240 compared to Carmargos .270 it’s a no brainer
You already said that.
You said this already.
The discussion is about reality not fantasy. Camargo is a great utility guy and teams value this a lot. Hence the Donaldson trade. Swanson can play one position as far as we know, maybe two but it’s not like he has played anything in the majors but SS. So he isn’t going to the bench. Period.
As I said in addition … having two utility guys means that the team may be able to carry another reliever at times.
I know about the batting differences but there is a bigger picture here.
Camargo has a ton of trade value
270 BA, 25 HRs and 80 RBIs in first full MLB season swtch hitter, prob will get better
under control for a long time for not much money
Either he or Riley can be traded if ATL is confident with Swanson/Albies
2nd season and he hit 19hr’s and 76 RBI’s but f*** facts.
Braves fan hyping up every player now lol
He missed about 1 month and a half budddy
Camargo for Ohtani and Trout!!
Even if Donaldson is just a one-year stopgap, it means Austin Riley is temporarily blocked. Ship him and Inciarte to the Indians and let’s do this thing.
Blocked for one year, so the Braves just get rid of him? Dumb.
Let’s him develop without any thought of rushing. He could be so polished that when he gets to the majors he’ll be the next Matt Chapman.. doubtful but hopeful haha
Way too many people here don’t understand how baseball works in 2018. Camargo will still get 450 ab and the Braves just guaranteed that they’ll have at least 23mil to spend next off season, probably an extra draft pick as well. Upside is a frightening clean up hitter behind Acuna and Freeman.
Short deals with more money per season is the future. Some stupid GM will offer Machado and/or Harper 10+ years but 6 months from now we’ll here about the 5 year 225mil offers that they turned down.
You better believe Harper and Machado will be the last to get 10+ years after they fail to live up to the hype.
Suddenly Ryu at 17.9 doesn’t look so bad. I’m getting the feeling that the contract numbers are going to be crazy this off season?
A healthy Donaldson is a top 10 player, he is worth 23 million.
“If” he’s healthy, otherwise it a huge overpay,
That’s why it’s 1 year sherlock
Huge overpay. Donaldson is past his prime. Yikes.
This is a fascinating deal that has several plausible outcomes. Congrats to the Braves for landing him, however, never in a million years would I have thought this would have been the first major signing of the offseason, and to a one year deal to boot!
The one year deal is the biggest mystery to me. At 33, regardless of coming off an injury or not, I would think multiple years would be the larger concern for a 33 year old 3B. Plus, he’s going to go through the attrition of switching leagues. He won’t have the luxury of DHing.
On the Braves side, this plays out 3 ways. One, he helps them make the playoffs and the signing is a smashing success. Two, Braves fall out of contention by July or August and they trade him to a contender and they snatch a prospect. Or three, he gets hurt and it’s a disaster of a signing.
Personally if I were Donaldson I would have waited it out until Machado signed. He would have had more leverage as far as AAV or years.
One year so it’s not too bad. Surprised at the amount though. Should be an interesting 2019 season.
Teams that want to get to October have to make moves, some are gambles but Donaldson is healthy can carry a team and Braves needed a right hand power bat. Only a year deal unless Donaldson has a big year and then who knows at 33?
Camargo is a good player, only way he is traded is if the Braves get a top notch starting pitcher in a package type deal. I can see that happening, however if not a super sub no problem, players get hurt and need days off always.
Yes, the Braves overspent on Donaldson. But imagine being any other team in that division, and realizing Donaldson was the best available free agent corner infielder. Now if your team wants to upgrade at 1B or 3B, you’re really gonna have to shell out some money or prospects, because no other CI free agent is an upgrade. Braves just forced the hands of their rivals. Add the potential for QO to Donaldson. Maybe they didn’t really overpay
I see this putting pressure on Philly more than any other team. I think their owner is about to get totally stupid.
This has a ton of upside and no long commitment. Good grab by the Braves. It was cool seeing him in a Cleveland jersey for a short while though.
Good signing for the Braves. Is there risk? Sure. But the impact is largely mitigated by the one year deal. You do this deal any day if you plan to be competitive.
Terrific move. Braves needed a no. 5 hitter to protect Acuna.
Camargo will be the primary utility infielder. Upgrade to the bench.
Coupled with McCann at $2MM…these were savvy moves by Alex Anthopoulos.
Am I really seeing people say we should have spent a bundle on Grandal? Get real…
As for the ace situation, an ace would be nice…but with Teheran, Newcomb, Foltynewich and Gausman, along with a bevy of prospects…it isn’t a NEED, per se.
I could see these moves followed by signing Michael Brantley, and then trades for a closer, maybe Alex Colome, and hopefully we could pry away Corey Kluber or Carlos Carrasco.
Big things in store for the Braves.
Acuna thrives leading off though so I doubt Donaldson is the one protecting him
Freeman yes
Lineup guess right now if nothing changes
Acuna
Albies
Freeman
Donaldson
McCann
Camargo
Swanson
Pitcher
Inciarte
No way they keep acuna leading off! He will have to move down in the lineup! I don’t think he leads off this year!
1. inciarte ( if good Spring Training
2. Acuna
3. Freeman
4. Donaldson
5. Camargo (LF as of now)
6. Albies
7. Swanson
8. McCann/flowers
He might move down to second like Erie has above but that’s predicated more on what Inciarte does
It’s not that absurd to have him hitting one or two
The best player in baseball does slot in at the two hole for the Angels last time I checked so Acuna sticking at one of the top slots isn’t really all that absurd
A lot of money, but ATL just signed a guy who has the ability to be a game changer on both sides of the ball if healthy and there’s no future risks here.
Even more perfect is that they have Austin Riley, who has the look of a legit future 3rd baseman. I’d go out on a limb and say Riley could be ready for the bigs relatively early on in 2019, but adding Donaldson ensures he’ll have more than enough time to fine tune his game in AAA.
Anybody else think these moves will bring Markakis back on a 2 year deal ?
Surprised by the signing but not shocked and I like the move. Culbertson probably sees a lot of time in the OF & Camargo plays 3-4 times a week in the infield.
McCann was a surprise but not end of the world. Expect 65/35 in favor of Flowers.
Still need an ace but don’t see Greinke coming now with the money owed him.
If signing Markakis instead of Brantley allows them to go after a TOR and bullpen piece then I’m all for it. I think the Donaldson and McCann deals were good moves, if not a bit of a gamble. But going for Brantley or Cutch is pushing your luck.
Really 65/35 in favor of Flowers ? Even though McCann is lefthanded, more pitchers are righthanded, and most managers play the righty lefty thing ?
I don’t think it will be a lefty righty platoon that doesn’t work for catchers to many day game after night games
Braves need an outfielder and Camargo has just become somewhat unnecessary. Padres need a 3rd baseman and have excess outfielders…I’d be shocked if there are not at least discussions there for these two teams.
i like this possibility just not sure we should give up Renfroe as others have suggested. Who is more valuable to the Padres and/or Braves? Franchy, Franmil, or Hunter? I’d love Camargo to join the other youngsters on our team but this is a tough one.. I have no problem trading Yates or Stock but which outfielder is a tough choice.
Don’t want Renfroe either bring back Markakis or make a trade for Domingo Santana. Renfroe will cost to much. We can maybe have Santana for Julio who has a tough time in STP
At this point would much rather have Markakis he can hold down the fort til Pache is ready and I think getting him out of the cleanup hole and into the 2 hole will be helpful to him. He is not a cleanup hitter but is a very professional hitter
Please! No more talk about Markakis. I’d rather put McCann in RF. Gallo and Leclerc. Diaz and Segura. Lots of trade posibilities. Sign Brantley or McCucthen. Just no Markakis!!
Meh
Smart move by Braves. Donaldson is great if healthy and will certainly be motivated on a one year deal.
Best case: Donaldson plays great and they can decide to keep him or offer a QO if he wants to much and get a good pick.
Worse case; you overpay for one year of average league production and are done with him.
If Atlants young pitching continues to get better thst division is over.
Thats an aweful lot of money for someone who barely played and when he did was light on the stick (for his recent standards anyway). I wouldn’t hit near that mark guaranteed. Hopefully the braves got some good insurance on him staying healthy
Hunter Renfroe or any SD OF’er is a hard no. Brantley replaces Markakis perfectly and is an upgrade. Better speed and much younger.
If Atlanta trades for anyone, it’s a closer and/or a SP.
Don’t screw with Dansby and his great hair….so send out Camargone if need be to Cleveland, get an OF and reliever, then trade for TOR pitcher
Contrares, Touisaint, Pache, Riley and Allard for Haniger, Diáz and Gamel. Haniger is upgrade and replacement for Markakis, Diáz gives them an elite closer, and Gamel could be a good NL bench piece. While the Braves keep their top 3, and 4 of 7 pitching prospects, get Haniger who replaces the need of Pache. Riley who deserves to be starting but is blocked by Donaldson and Camargo is not needed, and Contreres is stil 3-4 years away.
Pache is probably the only player who is safe of being traded. They love him. Hes possibly the reason the wont be getting an outfielder. Start Adam Duvall and let pache get ready for a call up mid way through unless Adam Duvall becomes that .270 30 hr guy we all know he is… but yes I want mitch haniger and Diaz pretty bad. But haniger is now the face of that team and I assume hes an untouchable
That’s a terrible trade for the Braves, as it guts their farm of the top position prospects.
They don’t need either of the two position players that close to the majors. Haniger, Inciarte and Acuña are locked up 4+ years each. And Riley won’t be needed as they have Donaldson this season and can use Camargo next season… or sign one of Bogarts/Rendon/Arenado/Gregorious. And all of those four players are more likely be better than Riley will be in his career, and the Braves can afford to sign them as they are saving money by paying almost nothing in the outfield, and closer.
the braves would prob have the best outfield in MLB but who will be the next catcher
It doesn’t make sense for the Braves to just wait for Contreras(3-4 years) if they want to win now.
If braves are patient then they will have a longer chance of being a contender
This trade does make ATL a WS favorite this year though
How bout Camargo, Pache, Riley, Gohara, allard
1. Inciarte
2. Acuna
3. Freeman
4. Haniger
5. Donaldson
6. Albies
7. Swanson
8. McCann/flowers
sign big 3b nxt year
Diaz as closer
I don’t think the M’s would want Gohara back which is why I included Tousaint over him, I think they about the same value anyways. But Camargo over Contreras works, just think the Mariners would want a catcher in a deal with Diaz or Haniger.
I think this deal makes them the favorite in the NL if they sign another pitcher and Anderson, Wright and Gohara can be at least average in their rookie seasons.
Actually Camargo, Pache, Riley, Wright, middle tier pitcher
camargo has a lot of value and is MLB proven
M’s get SS, 3b, CF, and possible TOR guy of the future
the three prospects are all at top of braves system
if gamel is a plus for braves take him out
I think that would be a great deal for the M’s, especially if they can get Sixto or Medina from the Phillies for Segura and maybe Coleme. Would definitely give them a chance to compete in 2020. And the Braves become one of the top dogs in the NL
I don’t see Riley or Contrares moving. Hence why both of those signings were 1 year deals. Riley takes over next season and Contrares is probably coming sooner than later as well. I would trade Pache, Touki, and Allard tho. But I don’t see them doing that. I’d take a trade of Diáz for Allard and Touki tho. I feel like that is fair.
Btw, for those saying Pache is untouchable. Y’all need to check water Drew Waters. He’s a much better hitter and will be a get 2 hole hitter when he hits the big leagues. I view him as a higher value that Pache (especially since Ender and Acuna both can man center with ease). I’d cash in on Pache tbh. I don’t have faith in his bat
Get it done Coppy!!!!!!
I don’t see this as being bad for Dansby or Camargo because I think Camargo can play left field. Plus is that bad of thing for Camargo to spell everyone and play almost like a starter.
Yea, He has a strong arm thou playing 3rd/SS prolly can play right.
Good moves. Doesn’t block prospects
$23M for a guy who hasn’t played a full season in two years??? I hope he proves me wrong but I doubt he’ll all of a sudden find health at age 34. I guess the Braves are looking at it like no one year contract is a bad contract.
Best of luck to both parties.
Donaldson is 32, about to turn 33.
Don’t let facts get in the way of a cherry picked, hollow tirade.
Cherry picked? C’mon man… he hasn’t played two full seasons in a row… nothing cherry picked about that fact.
I love ignorant internet warriors.
Yup, you’re right. He’s about to be 33. My opinion remains the same… he’s unlikely to find perfect health at 33 and play a full season.
I hope he proves me wrong.
Wouldn’t it be ironic if the Braves trade Swanson and Inciarte (along with others) to Arizona for Archie Bradley and Peralta?
Do you think AA will take tulo as well. Lol.
Acuna won’t lead off, Albies will.
1. Albies
2. Brantley
3. Freeman
4. Acuna
5. Donaldson
6. Inciarte
7. Swanson
8. McCann/Flowers
9. Pitcher/Pinch hitters
Acuna should hit 2nd
1. Inciarte ( if he has good spring training)
2. Acuna
3. Freeman
4. Donaldson
5. Brantley (eh just going with what you said
6. Albies
7. Swanson
8. McCann/Flowers
9. Pitcher/Pinch hitters
If either Albies or Swanson struggles subsitute Camargo
Good signing for this young team!!
In my opinion Camargo needs to have a set position every day
Either let him play LF/RF, SS, or trade him
Camargo has extremely high trade value right now
Whatever happened to Brett Lawrie?
Braves are trying to get superstar talent on a one year deal but still seems like an overpay. The possible reward is high but so is the risk
Camargo and Teheran to NY for Gray and Frazier?
Plus Andújar & Sánchez going to the Braves
That is terrible. Camargo is more valuable than Frazier and Teheran is more valuable than Gray.
Teheran is not more valuable than Gray. Both have similar value at this point!
No they don’t. You might be able to compare there TOTAL production, and even that I think favors Teheran, but if one thing demonstrates the value of one over the other, Teheran manages to stay off the DL.
If Teheran only had one year of relatively cheap control left you might have a point but he has two years left
I gotta think Teheran has the greater value at the moment
They’re both change of scenery candidates but one only has one year of control and the other has two years
Fine, Gary, Frazier, gleyber, and gray for Camargo and the bad 2019 starts of Teheran.
Not when you break down the BAA stats for Teheran.
23 Million???? I know it is only 1 year but what he brings at this point in his career is not that of a player who should be one of highest paid at his position.
I know it would have been a harder sell, but why not an incentive laden contract?
The only reason I care is Donaldson getting this type of money drives the market up.
He has had 1 bad season!! He was hurt!!!
Two most important words in the whole piece: “If healthy …”
He just made Machado’s day. Every big name should benefit even more because of that.
Age aside, I’d rather have JD than Manny.
For some reason this makes me think of Matt Kemp. An expensive, older, most considered a washed up player, provided tremendous value and spark to the Dodgers last year. Donaldson may surprise and provide the same type of spark and veteran leadership. On second thought, what do I know, I’m a Giants fan. Either way, congrats Braves fans, the future is bright. Just don’t go trading for Bum! That’ll break too many hearts where I live.
I don’t know anyone who considers JD washed up?
Smart move for the Braves. I like the idea of a super sub. However, Dansby Swanson is not the high range defender he’s reputed for. He will need to begin to justify the hype. Let’s hope Adam Duvall has a comes back season.
Lay off the crack dude…Dansby is great
$23,000,000 for someone who hasn’t performed for 2 years? Wow that is UNBELIEVEABLE
Kinda surprised that it wasn’t something like 3 years 45 million with opt outs. Could have locked up more money if injuries and other things derail him. He took a chance on himself but not always is that the wisest choice.
In 2017, AA hired the Jays long time Head Time Trainer-George Poulis to work for the Braves. This past year, Donaldson blamed the Jays newly created “High Performance” group for a lot of his health problems. So in reality, Donaldson is also being reunited with the one guy who kept him healthy during his Toronto glory years….Poulis.
My guess is that this played a big part in this signing
Well I’m 0-2 now, had Donaldson going to STL
So, does anyone know JDs stats against the NL? He just joked about it and alluded to it in his interview. Just curious.
Also trade JT, cash in the prospects, go get Bauer or Greinke, and trade for either Puig or Peralta get Ottavino on a 2 or 3 yr deal and get Miller for 1 yr! Call me next October.
(Side note: prospects traded out are debatable and really rely on 2 things a. Who the other team “likes/needs”, and b. who AA says is off-limits.)
In response to the Braves signing Donaldson the Mets are pondering bringing back Jose Reyes if they can fit his salary under the guidelines that the Wilpons have imposed. Mets believe many teams in competition for Reyes.
When you factor in the childhood connection, and the expectation that the two would talk, I’d bet it was as simple as Alex asking “What would it take, for one year, for you to sign right now?”
100+ games of career-average JD will be close to fair value imo and more, or better, would take “overpay” out of the discussion entirely.
I think that’s doable
Where do I sign up for the “Umbrellas in the Outfield” BringerofRain fan club?