Josh Donaldson, a veteran third baseman in Major League Baseball, has announced his retirement after a successful 13-year career. The 38-year-old made the announcement on a podcast, revealing that he is stepping away from the game he has dedicated his life to.
Donaldson's career highlights include being named the AL MVP in 2015 and earning three All-Star Game selections. He played for several teams throughout his career, including the A's, Blue Jays, Braves, Twins, Yankees, and Brewers.
His time with the Yankees, however, was marked by mixed results. Acquired by the Yankees in a trade with the Twins, Donaldson struggled to find his form, batting .207 with 25 home runs and 77 RBIs in 165 games. His tenure with the team was also marred by controversy, including an incident involving a racial comment directed at another player.
Donaldson's final season in MLB saw him play a brief stint with the Milwaukee Brewers, where he hit .169 in 17 games. Despite receiving offers to continue playing, Donaldson felt that the timing was not right for him to return to the field.
Reflecting on his career, Donaldson expressed both sadness and gratitude for the opportunity to play the game he loves. He acknowledged that while he will miss being on the field, he is looking forward to the next chapter of his life with his family.
Throughout his career, Donaldson was known for his power hitting and defensive prowess at third base. His impact on the teams he played for was felt both on and off the field, making him a respected figure in the baseball community.
As he bids farewell to professional baseball, Josh Donaldson leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and passion for the game. His contributions to the sport will be remembered by fans and fellow players alike, marking the end of an era in his illustrious career.
