Blue Jays' Josh Donaldson records RBI in rehab assignment, expected to be placed on waivers

Alec Gearty

Blue Jays' Josh Donaldson records RBI in rehab assignment, expected to be placed on waivers image

Josh Donaldson played in his first professional baseball game since May 28 on Tuesday night, and the former American League MVP didn't miss a beat in his return. 

Donaldson, recovering from a strained left calf muscle, began his rehab assignment with the Dunedin Blue Jays — Toronto's High-A affiliate. While he was forced to await the rain to subside, Donaldson finally assumed his regular spot on the hot corner. He finished the night 1-for-3 at the plate during Dunedin's loss to the Palm Beach Cardinals.

Cardinals' starter Ian Oxnevad walked Donaldson on a full count during the latter's first at-bat of the game. The 32-year-old, however, made an impact two innings later when the Blue Jays were clinging to its one-run lead

Donaldson has knocked in 316 runs in four seasons with Toronto. After Logan Warmoth started the third inning with a triple, Donaldson displayed his prowess at the plate to extend Dunedin's lead, scoring Warmoth on an RBI single. The third-baseman's night was finished in the bottom

The third-baseman's night was finished in the seventh inning as teammate Nash Knight served as a pinch-hitter for Donaldson. For however long Donaldson's rehab stint lasts, it's an opportunity for teams to become reacquainted with the Blue Jay. Donaldson is still a viable candidate for Friday's waiver trade deadline, which is the last day a player could be eligible for the postseason.

The Blue Jays reportedly "want Donaldson gone," according to The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal.

MORE: Josh Donaldson inches closer to return for Blue Jays

TSN's Steve Phillips expects Toronto to place Donaldson on waivers by the time Wednesday rolls around. If a team claims Donaldson off waivers, Toronto will be able to work out a trade involving Donaldson. Phillips cites Donaldson's substantial contract as a reason why he could go unclaimed. 

Donaldson, who is a free agent after the season, could become the most notable name available for any team hoping to make a postseason push. While he progresses through his rehab assignment, there's no guarantee that Donaldson's next game in the MLB is with Toronto. 

 

Alec Gearty