The Blue Jays have made it well-known they are trying to deal Josh Donaldson, which must happen before midnight so Donaldson can participate in the postseason.
Josh Donaldson and Curtis Granderson each expected to be traded tonight before midnight deadline
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) August 31, 2018
The Braves appear to be one of the teams interested.
Cardinals are a team to watch on Josh Donaldson with Braves believed to be kicking tires as well.
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) August 31, 2018
Alex Anthopolous was instrumental in bringing Donaldson to Toronto, where he won the MVP in 2015 and hit thirty or more homers in his first three seasons. Unfortunately, his 2018 season has largely been wasted do to a nagging calf injury.
Donaldson was hitting .234 with five homers and sixteen RBIs in 36 games before being placed on the DL June 1st. Not exactly the typical stat line for the three-time All-Star, but at 32 years old, there is reason to believe he has a lot to offer if he can regain his health. He has been participating in rehab starts with High-A Dunedin recently and hopes to contribute to a competing team down the stretch.
While health is the primary reason a deal will not happen, the Braves would also have some internal issues to figure out. Johan Camargo has been too good to move to the bench, and Dansby Swanson looks like his bat might finally be catching up to his glove. It is hard to imagine the organization wanting to move him out of the lineup. Even the bench has quality options like Charlie Culberson and the newly acquired Lucas Duda. Not to mention, Donaldson will be owed $3.7 million, making this an even healthier investment for an injured player who is not a clear fit in the field.