The Dodgers have a long off-season ahead of them with huge names on both the free agent market and the trade market. One of the somewhat surprising names that the Dodgers have been connected to early on is third baseman Josh Donaldson.
According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Dodgers remain in the hunt for Donaldson for a variety of reasons.
Latest notes, sign-stealing free edition! An intriguing option for #Reds; reasons to believe in Strasburg; the #Braves big bullpen bet; new education for young players on extensions; #Dodgers/Donaldson; much more. https://t.co/rPNYG0SdQK
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) November 22, 2019
Donaldson’s Personality
One of the main reasons Donaldson would be an excellent addition to the Dodgers’ core is because of his eccentric personality. The Dodgers’ current roster is filled with many players who are laid back and it could use a bit of a change — some fire, if you will. Donaldson provides that and did so with a young core in Atlanta last season. Outside of the baseball fit, Donaldson is a personality fit for the bright lights of Los Angeles.
The Braves are known to want him back in Atlanta for this very reason.
Right Handed Balance
The Dodgers primary lineup fixtures are all left-handed sans Justin Turner. Even top prospect Gavin Lux is a left-handed hitter. It is no secret that the Dodgers could use some right-handed balance in their lineup and Donaldson provides that. While he held just a .215 batting average against lefties in 2019, he also posted a .395 on-base percentage and 123 wRC+ against them. In 2018, he tore them to shreds. He should fit right in.
Overall
Donaldson had an excellent season with the Atlanta Braves in 2019, posting 4.9 WAR and a terrific 132 wRC+. He would appear to slide right in at third baseman for the Dodgers and would also slot right into the middle of the order.
