Josh Donaldson, renowned for his illustrious career primarily with the Oakland Athletics and the Toronto Blue Jays, had a forgettable stint with the New York Yankees before officially retiring. His peak came in 2015 when he clinched the American League MVP with remarkable stats. Reflecting on his entire career, including his time with the Yankees, he announced his retirement on Sean Casey’s podcast, “The Mayor’s Office,” as he transitions to a life closer to his family.
While Donaldson’s retirement wasn’t entirely unexpected, it was formally confirmed recently. His arrival in New York before the 2022 season via a trade with the Minnesota Twins had raised expectations, given his impressive performance with the Twins. However, Donaldson’s tenure in New York was marked by disappointment, as he struggled to replicate his previous success, drawing criticism from fans and media alike.
Despite his challenging stint with the Yankees, Donaldson’s overall career remains remarkable. Over 13 years in Major League Baseball, he amassed impressive statistics, solidifying his place as one of the premier third basemen of the 21st century. His contributions to teams like Toronto and Oakland during playoff runs are remembered fondly, although his time in New York was marred by controversies and on-field struggles.
Rumors about Donaldson’s retirement had circulated as early as Spring Training the previous year. Ultimately, age caught up with him, affecting his performance once he joined the Yankees. Although his legacy in baseball may be somewhat tarnished by his time in New York, time may eventually heal those wounds.
With his retirement, Donaldson looks forward to focusing on family life without the demands of a professional baseball season, having recently tied the knot.
