Blue Jays: Potential trade partners for Josh Donaldson

Atlanta Braves

The Braves currently have Johan Camargo as their everyday third baseman, and although he is playing at a good level (.792 OPS, 13 home runs) acquiring Josh Donaldson would be an upgrade (if healthy) over the young promising player, who they could use as a utility man. Braves General Manager Alex Anthopoulos brought Donaldson to Toronto in a trade with the Athletics, so he certainly likes his former star player.

Atlanta is also in the race to win their division and acquiring the former 32-year-old MVP could give them the edge. They might want to take advantage of Donaldson’s current low value and take a gamble on a player that can be absolutely decisive in high leverage moments and games. Another factor that could contribute to their interest is Donaldson’s veteran presence. That MVP pedigree and postseason experience can complement well with their young core.

St Louis Cardinals

The Cardinals have won eight of their last 10 games, a streak that has put them straight back into playoff contention. They’re 2.5 games away from the second National League Wild Card Spot and a healthy Donaldson could certainly help in their playoff push. Their need of a big infield bat isn’t such a necessity as it was in the past offseason because Matt Carpenter, Jedd Gyorko, and Jose Martinez, currently playing first and third for the Cardinals, are having solid seasons, with Carpenter is particular raking after a slow start.

Nonetheless, shifting around the field in order to play Donaldson at third is a possibility as they’ve all played at different positions in their careers. Another point worth making is that the Cardinals made a strong push to acquire Donaldson in the offseason but Toronto wasn’t considering any trade involving the former All-Star third baseman.