Blue Jays’ Donaldson Makes Spring Training Debut

Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Josh Donaldson made his long-awaited Spring Training debut against the Minnesota Twins.

Josh Donaldson served as the team’s designated hitter while batting third in the lineup. The Blue Jays would go on to lose 8-2 against the Twins at the Florida Auto Exchange Stadium in Dunedin, Florida.

The 2015 American League MVP didn’t necessarily make it rain at the plate as he was under strict caution to not push himself in his first game. He went 0-2 with a walk and a strikeout from Twins pitcher Tyler Duffey.

Although Donaldson did make three minor league appearances that were only at the plate, this marked the first major league action for him as he suffered a calf muscle strain on February 17.

While the Blue Jays Grapefruit League record currently stands at 6-14, a healthy Donaldson should start to become more comfortable at the plate heading into Opening Day against the Baltimore Orioles on April 3.

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An all-star in three straight seasons, the 31-year old hit .284 with 37 home runs and 99 RBI last season.

Over the past few days, Donaldson has increased his workload in batting practice, and on the field. Most importantly, he is running more aggressively at his own pace.

Donaldson continues to believe that the Jays should be a highly competitive and postseason threat once again.

His return from injury is the beginning of a reunion as he is one of the key figures in the Blue Jays leadership group. Second baseman Devon Travis, who had offseason knee surgery, continues to hit after appearing in several minor league games. Travis could return as soon as Friday.

Outfielder Jose Bautista could return as early as tomorrow from the World Baseball Classic, and starting pitcher Marcus Stroman will return once the United States wrap their run in the WBC this week.

Next: Blue Jays’ Devon Travis Future Outlook

If all goes well for Donaldson, he could most certainly start playing on the field at third base as early as Wednesday when the Blue Jays take on the Detroit Tigers.